Integration of Nature Education into the Formal Curriculum in Elementary Schools: Impact on Students' Emotional Intelligence and Environmental Intelligence

Abstract

The integration of nature education into the formal elementary school curriculum is a strategic approach to addressing the need for holistic education that is not only oriented towards cognitive achievement, but also the development of students' emotional aspects and environmental awareness. This study aims to analyze the implementation of nature education in the formal curriculum and its impact on elementary school students' emotional and environmental intelligence. The research approach used was a qualitative case study design, involving principals, teachers, and students as research subjects. Data collection techniques were carried out through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies, while data analysis was carried out interactively through reduction, presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results showed that the integration of nature education was able to create meaningful, experiential contextual learning. The implementation of nature-based learning encouraged active student involvement, strengthened emotional regulation, empathy, and social skills. In addition, direct experience with the environment formed ecological awareness, responsible attitudes, and sustainable environmental behavior. Curriculum support, teacher roles, and school policies were key factors in the success of nature education integration. This study confirmed that nature education contributed significantly to developing students who were academically intelligent, emotionally mature, and possessed strong environmental intelligence.