Journal of Education & Social Policy

The Perspectives and Experiences of High School Students towards the Environment –The Case of North Alabama
Colmore Christian, Santosh Kumar Ojha, Berneece Herbert

Abstract
The study explored high school students’ knowledge, behaviours, perspectives, and participation in environmental protection and outdoor activities in Madison County, Alabama. In summer 2014 and 2015 we surveyed students from 8 schools which were associated with the North Alabama Centre for Educational Excellence. A total of 86 completed questionnaires were received. A multidimensional construct, consisting of a 16-item mixed-format set of questions was used for data collection. Descriptive statistics and graphical representation were used to interpret the results. Cranach’s alpha coefficient was computed to measure internal consistency, reliability and validity of the questionnaire. Pearson’s chi-square test was used to assess differences on attitude, experience, and participation among students based on gender and grade. There was no significant difference in students’ attitudes towards environmental protection based on gender and grade. Overall, the study found strong positive attitude towards environmental protection and environmental education but low experience and participation in pro-environmental activities among students.

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