Investigation of the Environmental Attitudes and Approaches of University Students’

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine university students’ approach to environment and nature, and their awareness of environmental protection. For this purpose, a survey with sample of 12% applied to the students of the Faculty of Architecture, Gazi University. Approaches and attitudes of students evaluated according to variables of age, gender and their attended programs and grades within the scope of protection of the environment, human-environment-nature relationship, the use of natural resources, environmental issues, economic growth and industrialization issues. Descriptive statistics and quantitative methods were used in the process of analysis and evaluation of the data collected. In the conclusion of study, It has been determined that students participated to this study are indecisive about environmentalist and nature-centered approaches. Students were also found to be indecisive about sensitivity related to environment, nature and environmental issues, in taking individual responsibility and changing their attitudes and behaviors. When approaches and sensitivities of students analyzed according to their gender; sensitivities of girl students were higher, and according to their department; sensitivities of students at the department of urban and regional planning were found to be higher. There is no significant relationship found between the environmental awareness of students and courses taken by these students about ecology and the environment.