A Critical Consideration of Environmental Literacy: Concepts, Contexts, and Competencies

Abstract

This study is based on a Delphi study on environmental literacy which is an important part of science education. The main goal is to clarify the framework, including concepts, contexts, and competencies of environmental literacy, and to reach consensus on this framework in accordance with expert opinions. This study used a mixed method research design, which included both qualitative and quantitative methods, to reveal expert opinions. The exploratory sequential design, one type of mixed method research, was used in this Delphi study and performed in three consecutive steps. The sample consisted of 45 experts who initially agreed to participate in this study, with 20 of the 45 participating in the first step Delphi. The numbers of participants in the second and third Delphi steps are 44 and 31, respectively. This study concluded there was a consensus about the definition, sub-dimensions, and competencies of environmental literacy and the institutions, social groups, and people responsible for the development of qualified environmentally-literate individuals. Additionally, there was agreement concerning what to do to support the development of environmental literacy, topics that should be included in the curriculum and textbooks, and teaching methods and extra-curriculum activities for the development of environmental literacy.

Environmental Awareness, Attitudes, and Behaviour of Preservice Preschool and Primary School Teachers

“…In response to the growing environmental crisis, developing environmentally literate citizens is crucial to understanding and overcoming environmental problems. Environmental literacy is a precursor for effective environmental protection (Kaya & Elster, 2019;Keinonen et al, 2016) and it could be achieved through environmental education. Effective education enhances environmental awareness, attitudes, values, and knowledge, as well as develops skills that prepare individuals to collaboratively undertake positive environmental action and responsible behaviour regarding the environment (Aminrad et al, 2013;Ardoin et al, 2020).…”

Analisis Kebutuhan Pengembangan Instrumen Literasi Lingkungan Untuk Mahasiswa Pendidikan Biologi FKIP Universitas Ahmad Dahlan

“…Literasi lingkungan bukan hanya pengetahuan tentang sistem alam dan ekologi saja, namun didukung juga oleh keterampilan lainnya yaitu sikap dan kepedulian terhadap kondisi lingkung an yang dinamis. Sikap serta kepedulian terhadap lingkungan akan memberikan motivasi untuk mewujudkan perilaku cinta dan peduli terhadap lingkungan (Igbokwe, 2012;Kaya & Elster, 2019).…”

“…Mahasiswa merasa penting untuk mengetahui serta mengikuti isu-isu lingkungan terkini (98,67%) agar selalu dapat up to date terhadap kondisi lingkungan. Hal tersebut sejalan dengan hasil penelitian (Kaya & Elster, 2019) bahwa tercapai konsesus aspek-aspek yang diperlukan untuk mencapai literasi lingkungan yaitu salah satunya adalah pengetahuan serta pemahaman terhadap isu-isu lingkungan.…”

Environmental Literacy Research: Global Scientometric Mapping of Five Decades

“…9 Most reviews suggest the inclusion of El in various disciplines of social sciences and humanities. Like that, science discipline too put effort in promoting Environmental literacy will be addressed primarily in scientific curriculum and text books, perhaps providing opportunities to protect the natural environment and encourage its efficient use 10 . It is necessary to develop kids' environmental literacy.…”