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Prior Knowledge of Sustainability Among Freshmen Students of University of Professional Studies

In: Sustainable Education and Development – Sustainable Industrialization and Innovation

Author

Listed:
  • N. A. A. Doamekpor

    (University of Professional Studies)

  • E. M. Abraham

    (University of Professional Studies)

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates UPSA students’ prior knowledge of sustainable development (SD) as well as its association with students’ gender. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study is descriptive with data obtained using a cross-sectional survey of freshmen. Data were collected using convenient sampling during orientation sessions for the students. A total of 235 responses were received. The collected data were analysed using relative index to rank items related to students’ knowledge of various aspects of SD. Mann-Whitney U test was used to test if there was a significant difference between males and females with regard to the top three items with the highest level of knowledge. Findings: The findings showed low levels of knowledge on environmental legislation, policy and standard and no significant difference in knowledge of SD between males and females. Implications/Research Limitations: The results highlight the need for including and emphasizing content on SD aside environmental issues. Particularly legislation, policy and standards should be discussed. Although the participants of the study were first year students from one public university it provides empirical evidence for SD knowledge amongst business and management students. Qualitative approaches are required to further explore the nature and depth of the knowledge students have. Practical Implications: Understanding student knowledge will inform what is lacking and hence be the focus of subsequent education for sustainability so as to provide valuable grounding in the concepts and principles of sustainability. Originality/Value: Past studies have investigated sustainability education around the world and across different disciples and levels but have not adequately studied prior knowledge. The findings of this study provide evidence of the knowledge students have of sustainability prior to the start of higher education which is relevant to facilitating further learning on the subject and curriculum development.

Suggested Citation

  • N. A. A. Doamekpor & E. M. Abraham, 2023. "Prior Knowledge of Sustainability Among Freshmen Students of University of Professional Studies," Springer Books, in: Clinton Aigbavboa & Joseph N. Mojekwu & Wellington Didibhuku Thwala & Lawrence Atepor & Emmanuel Adi (ed.), Sustainable Education and Development – Sustainable Industrialization and Innovation, pages 493-500, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-031-25998-2_37
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-25998-2_37
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