ABSTRACT

Ecology is about the changing relationships of living organisms to each other and to their environment. The development of ecology has led to an increased understanding of the way in which different parts of the environment relate to one another, particularly in the natural world. The ‘relational’ aspect of an ecological approach is important. It highlights the significance of the relationships within which learning takes place. In the same way that the medium can be the message, relationships can determine the messages transmitted and the learning that occurs. In addition to relationships, the term ‘ecological’ implies a concern with the environment as the initial object of inquiry. Much of the group work described in earlier chapters involved people in a process of action and reflection upon their environment. The hidden agenda of the meetings was therefore directed more towards an awareness of personal and collective power on the part of those involved.