Shaping pro-environmental behaviors through eco-diaries and research-based projects: an experimental study of business students at Yangzhou University
International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education
ISSN: 1467-6370
Article publication date: 8 November 2024
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to identify the effects of two types of teaching approaches, namely, project-based learning and place-based learning, on the development of pro-environmental behaviors among university students.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a pre-test–post-test experimental design to evaluate the efficacy of project- and placed-based learning in promoting pro-environmental behaviors among university students. Participants were randomly allocated to either the project-based learning cohort (consisting of 50 participants) or the place-based learning cohort (also consisting of 50 participants). The pre-test assessments evaluated the initial pro-environmental behaviors of the participants. Then, interventions were conducted with the help of instructors. The project-based learning intervention necessitated participants to collectively take part in real-life problem-solving endeavors about environmental matters. On the other hand, the place-based learning intervention prompted participants to record and contemplate their interactions with the surrounding environment. Both interventions sought to augment participants’ understanding, beliefs and actions related to the environment. After the interventions, post-test assessments were carried out to assess any alterations in participants’ pro-environmental behaviors. Mean analysis and paired sample t-test were performed to examine the differences among the pre-test and post-test for both project- and place-based learning.
Findings
The findings of this study indicate that the participants have exhibited improved pro-environmental behaviors, including environmental activism, non-activist behaviors and private sphere green behaviors.
Originality/value
This research is original in its analysis of project- and place-based learning approaches for fostering pro-environmental behaviors. By using a pre-test–post-test experimental design, this study provides empirical evidence on the effectiveness of these active learning strategies in shaping environmental attitudes and actions.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research was supported by the Postdoctoral Management Research Project at Yonsei University. The authors are grateful for the intellectually stimulating environment provided by the university, which was crucial in refining their research methodologies. Additionally, the networking opportunities facilitated by the project enabled valuable connections with experts in the field, enriching their research perspective. The guidance and expertise offered through this program have been instrumental in elevating the quality and depth of this study.
Citation
Qin, Y. and Qin, C. (2024), "Shaping pro-environmental behaviors through eco-diaries and research-based projects: an experimental study of business students at Yangzhou University", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-03-2024-0222
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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