Determination of the Level of Environmental Knowledge, Consciousness and Environmental Attitudes of Elementary Education Students in Corlu, Turkey

Abstract

This study was done in the education year of 2007-2008 by sampling 841 students in 4 elementary education schools in Corlu at the level of primary and secondary education. The method of survey was used. In the preparation of questionnaire forms, the literature about environmental education was looked through. Generally, the study showed that girls are more environmentally concerned than boys and tend to display more environmentally responsible behaviour. The main finding of the study is that demographic variables, gender and level of parental education have a major influence on the pattern of environmental knowledge, consciousness and active participation and behaviour. The school curriculum with respect to environmental education should be developed for the students who are sensitive about environmental issues to increase their level of participation in environmental activities and have positive environmental attitude. This research suggests that far more research is needed for the exploration of the wider social and economic relationships which affect the environmental education of elementary school students.