The virtual learning environment as an enhancer of Arts/Environmental Education

The sense of belonging, which is fundamental in relations between a subject and the environment, may result from connections between Arts and Environmental Education since both areas not only intertwine and complement each other but also trigger interactive, creative and cognitive social processes. From this perspective, we have defended the use of technology as a tool for pedagogical processes which enable subjects to change their behavior in order to develop new forms of relationships with others and the environment. Therefore, we have proposed a virtual environment for Arts/Environmental Education, the so named AVArte, to become a pedagogical tool for Arts teaching and for the development of processes in Environmental Education in school contexts. However, it is a way to instigate the wish for learning, rather than a mere tool for technological inclusion, since it enables learners to share a digital culture besides triggering their interest in the historical, artistic, cultural and natural heritage of the places where they live. When knowledge is acquired, new relations and the sense of belonging can be established with these places. Thus, AVArte triggers wish, not only for better education, but also for changes in relations with others and with the surroundings.