Assessment of Science Educators' and Students' Knowledge of Climate Change and Attitude Toward Waste Management Practices
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.57125/FED.2025.09.25.15Keywords:
climate change awareness, waste management, science education, environmental education, sustainability, assessment.Abstract
In addressing environmental challenges, education remains a crucial tool for promoting sustainability. This study explored the intersection of knowledge and practices of science educators and students regarding climate change and waste management in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria. The research evaluates awareness levels, determines behaviour patterns, and identifies systemic challenges affecting environmental consciousness. A descriptive survey design was employed, utilising a purposive sample of 842 participants, comprising 800 students and 42 science educators from selected secondary schools and tertiary institutions. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and analysed using Microsoft Excel and RStudio for data wrangling and statistical analysis. Findings revealed moderate to low levels of knowledge and awareness regarding climate change and waste management among both students and educators. Notably, practices were inconsistent and did not reflect sustainable waste disposal behaviour. Visual data interpretations (box plots, scatter plots, density plots, and bar charts) showed significant knowledge gaps and a disconnect between awareness and actual environmental practices. A lack of targeted education and limited policy enforcement were identified as key barriers to progress. The study concluded with policy recommendations for structured environmental education, particularly among future influencers such as teachers and students, as well as the integration of climate change and waste management into the academic curriculum. It also contributes to global academic discourse by addressing an understudied region and population. By integrating environmental education properly at all levels of education worldwide, societies can have an environmentally conscious population and advocates who can promote sustainability.
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