Revitalizing Geoeducation through Partnership Framework: A Case Study of the School Education Program in Shikaoi, Japan

<p>The principal aims of geoparks are to preserve geological heritage, disseminate geo-knowledge, and stimulate local economy. Central to achieving these objectives is geoeducation, which deepens the understanding of geological formations and the Earth's natural processes. This research focused on the Tokachi-Shikaoi Geopark and Hokkaido Shikaoi High School, adopting a mixed-methods approach. It included a content analysis of educational resources, particularly evaluating the relationship between the geo-knowledge content of the textbooks ‘Shin-Chikyu Gaku’ and the Tokachi-Shikaoi Geopark. It also conducted qualitative in-depth face-to-face interviews with key informants knowledgeable about geoeducation. The survey results indicated that while geoeducation was effective before 2018, its subsequent discontinuation created a need to revive and enhance its effectiveness. Potential enhancements could include interactive geopark-based activities and fieldwork projects that align with each educational level’s learning objectives. The interviews highlighted the importance of the ‘Geoeducation Program’ and expressed a strong attachment to it and a critical need for teacher training and support.A review of textbooks revealed a lack of sufficient information on the Tokachi-Shikaoi Geopark and geoparks in general. Potential enhancements could include the development of dedicated geopark chapters. This study proposed a partnership framework for geoeducation, engaging geoparks, universities, elementary, junior high, and high schools, as well as other stakeholders. This framework involves utilizing university resources and implementing e-textbooks featuring geopark-related geo-knowledge. Such collaboration ensures that the geopark’s economic contributions are sustainable, thus preventing the depletion of natural resources and environmental degradation. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for improving the quality and impact of geoeducation in geoparks worldwide.</p>