Assessing the existing environment education for regular higher education: A gap analysis study

¹ Department of Art, Ajloun National University, 26810, Ajloun, Jordan
² Department of Civil Engineering, Ajloun National University, 26810, Ajloun, Jordan

^* Corresponding author: razvan.savan@yahoo.com

Abstract

Raising public awareness of environmental issues is a crucial step toward ensuring a sustainable future for both human society and the environment. Universities, along with their students and graduates, play a vital role in this process. As Environmental Education (EE) is a critical subject in education that requires further investigation, this paper seeks to examine students’ levels of knowledge, values, and environmental behaviors. It also aims to assess the role universities play in increasing students’ environmental awareness. The study’s population and sample consisted of full-time students at Ajloun National University, with 100 students randomly selected as the study sample. The results revealed that students demonstrated a high level of environmental awareness and held positive attitudes toward the environment. Furthermore, the findings highlighted the university’s essential role in developing environmental knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. This was achieved through initiatives such as the inclusion of environmental education as an optional subject, the integration of environmental topics in compulsory course syllabi, and the provision of scientific activities. These activities included applied research projects, lecture series, documentary screenings, environmental day celebrations, exhibitions, nature visits, and seminars. These opportunities allowed students to explore solutions to various environmental problems in a practical setting.