Smart Ecopedagogy through Local History Integration in Social Studies: Strengthening Ecological Awareness in Cianjur, West Java, Indonesia

Abstract

This study investigates the implementation of smart ecopedagogy through the integration of local history in Social Studies (IPS) learning to strengthen students’ ecological awareness in Cianjur, West Java, Indonesia. The research highlights how local historical narratives can serve as meaningful and contextual learning resources that bridge cultural heritage and environmental education. Using a qualitative content analysis and literature review approach, this study examines recent scholarly works from 2020 to 2025 to explore how the values embedded in Cianjur’s local history and traditions foster ecological literacy and sustainable attitudes among students. The findings indicate that integrating local history within Social Studies not only enhances students’ understanding of historical and cultural identity but also promotes environmental sensitivity, critical thinking, and responsible citizenship. The concept of smart ecopedagogy emphasizes adaptive, interdisciplinary, and technology-assisted learning that supports sustainability-oriented education. This approach enables students to connect past wisdom with present ecological challenges, thereby cultivating reflective awareness and proactive environmental behavior. The study concludes that local history-based ecopedagogy can be a strategic framework for developing transformative learning experiences that align with global sustainability goals and the principles of smart education for sustainable development.