Using Art Elicitation to Deliver and Evaluate a Grade 4 Climate Change Instructional Module

Abstract

We report the results of a climate change module delivered to 48 Grade 3/4 students in Nova Scotia, Canada. We tested for prior knowledge and evaluated interventional effectiveness using art elicitation. Common climate change misconceptions were demonstrated in their preintervention artwork, while postintervention artwork showed improved concordance with climate change causes and impacts, with little grasp of adaptation or mitigation. Students and teachers alike responded positively to the lessons, and few students demonstrated negative emotional reactions to the material. We highlight some shortcomings, but demonstrate the utility of art elicitation and the appropriateness of introducing climate change to Grade 4 students.