Participation in short-term nature-based learning activities promotes positive environmental attitudes for urban children

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of participation in a three-day nature-based learning experience at an urban national park on children's environmental knowledge, attitudes and behavior. The context for the study, as presented by the researcher, was to explore the effectiveness of experience within an urban national park as a way to foster a caring connection with the environment. The author states, In developing countries, the presence of urban protected areas (PAs) spotlights the important mission to reach out to the large number of people living close to them, thus providing a special opportunity to spread the conservation message. The future of conservation efforts hinges on building a love for nature in the hearts and the minds of the youth.”

The experience was comprised of varying levels of exposure to native flora, fauna, and locales, intermixed with quizzes, writing assignments, and group discussions.  A total of 260 participants, aged 13, were recruited from five schools in low socio-economic neighborhoods in the Cape Town Metro area. A 28-item Likert style questionnaire was used to assess knowledge about a specific animal species, environmental attitudes, and environmental behavior. Questionnaires were distributed pre- and six weeks post-visit.

Improvements to knowledge were minimal and in some cases decreases in knowledge were observed.  Significant gains in knowledge were only attributable to one of the six knowledge questions. In contrast, there were significant differences between pre- and post-scores for five of the nine attitude items including changes in attitudes towards certain animal types, value given to plant species, importance attributed to conservation, and personal/governmental involvement in conservation issues. No significant changes in behavior were realized suggesting the need for guidance and support in helping children translate environmental attitudes to action.

The author suggests the need for additional studies and cites the importance of enthusiastic, prepared environment educators as well as sufficient resources to design, deliver, and evaluate how to most effectively engage youth in conservation-related behaviors.