Abstract

ISAAC-MARQUEZ, Ricardo et al. Environmental Culture in High-School Students: Case Study of Environmental Education at the High-School Level in Campeche. REDIE [online]. 2011, vol.13, n.2, pp.83-99. ISSN 1607-4041.

This paper offers an analysis of the situation presented by environmental education at the high-school level, by means of a case study done in the municipality of Campeche. There was performed exploratory research which combined quantitative and qualitative methods to diagnose high-school students' level of environmental culture, as well as the type of environmental education they receive. The results indicate that students have a low level of environmental awareness, and lack the necessary knowledge and skills with which to make environmentally-friendly changes in their lifestyles. Although they show an interest in environmental issues, both their institutional context and their teachers' low level of qualification operate as factors that discourage the students. The results allowed us to identify windows of opportunity for environmental education in the light of the students' positive attitudes, their interest in learning sustainable practices, and the importance of the school as a source of information on the environment.

Keywords : Environmental education; sustainable development; high school; Mexico.