Comprehensive Analysis of the Environmental Awareness Problem. A Service-Learning Experience Based on Inquiry

Raising awareness about the environment through developing critical thinking is essential in a world marked by the complexity of social problems and the need for sustainability. Given the importance of its promotion in teaching–learning, this chapter presents a service-learning experience grounded in inquiry-based learning, focused on Sustainable Development Goal 12, which addresses responsible production and consumption. The chapter delves into the dimension of critical thinking related to the comprehensive analysis of problems, using the example of a latent environmental issue resulting from industrial activity in Chile’s central area. This issue was investigated by 19 Chilean students, aged 15, who visited the polluted area, conducted research and reflected on their findings. The students then shared their research results with their community via social networks. The findings from this experience reveal that students predominantly considered the environmental aspects of the problem, often overlooking its social, economic, political, and ethical dimensions. These findings underscore the need to continue providing students with opportunities to work on the comprehensive analysis of problems, engaging in the holistic analysis of complex issues.