Summary
Human-led exploitation of our planet has resulted in an enormous environmental crisis. Anthropocentrism, the belief that the world was made for humans and
everything in it is meant for human use, often goes unnamed in conversations about systemic issues. Yet, this pervasive worldview is at the root of our ecological crisis and is deeply intertwined with other unjust ideologies. Geography curriculum and instruction, while often well-intentioned, can perpetuate anthropocentrism. Extractive/exploitative language, idealized views of the theory of environmental possibilism, and the sharp divisions between “human” and “physical” are just a few examples of how anthropocentrism is reinforced to our students in geography. This session encourages educators to take a more ecocentric approach in their classrooms—a necessary step towards a more sustainable future for us all. It opens space for us to share ideas of how we can introduce diverse perspectives in our classroom and work to foster our students’ passions to be stewards of the environment.
Session Focus
All Grade Levels | Geography for Life | Curriculum and Instruction
Conference Room
Reynolds Leadership Circle
Meet the Presenter
Jacie Lackey (she/her) is a social studies educator at Yukon High School in Oklahoma. She teaches a variety of classes including AP Human Geography, AP Psychology, and Sociology. She is also a first-year doctoral student in Educational Studies at the University of Oklahoma, where her research focuses on critical pedagogy of place and ecological social studies education.
