The YLEC theory of engagement reflects the existing knowledge on youth engagement

Youth Leading Environmental Change (YLEC) is an international organization designed to involve youth in promoting environmental justice and sustainability. Participating youth take part in a series of workshops developed collaboratively by a group of researchers, representatives of environmental organizations and young environmental leaders from six different countries. This paper describes the theory of youth engagement framing these workshops. The theory was built around a comprehensive literature review and several research studies involving the engagement of youth in environmental action. The goal in developing the theory was to build a youth engagement program which would be relevant and valid in different cultural contexts.

The literature review highlighted the need for more systematic research in youth engagement but also identified several potentially effective methods of youth engagement. These include participatory approaches, role models, and peer education. Findings from one study indicated that an in-person speaker sharing her lived experience of environmental injustice was one of the most impactful components of a course designed to help students become effective change agents for the environment. Findings from another study indicated that an international exchange “has great potential to raise students’ awareness of the global nature of environmental justice.”

The theory of engagement developed, used, and evaluated by YLEC suggests that four core components interact to produce five “facilitating factors.” The four core components consist of (1) fostering systems thinking, (2) encouraging personal reflection, (3) building action competence, and (4) providing role modeling and support. The facilitating factors include motivation, comprehension, skills, self-efficacy, and opportunity. In addition to discussing each of these components and facilitating factors, this paper also provides an example of how the theory can be operationalized using the YLEC project. The example YLEC workshop is facilitated by two youth environmental activists and includes the involvement of local environmental organizations. The workshop begins with fostering awareness of global climate change on marginalized communities. It then introduces action projects and connects the participating youth with youth from other countries.

The theory of engagement presented in this paper reflects the existing knowledge on youth engagement, especially engagement in environmental action. The YLEC program based on this theory has proven effective in helping young people become active citizens and environmental change agents.