Student perceptions and solutions about the matters of environment

Abstract

Abstract The goal of this study is to determine the manner in which the 8th graders perceive the environmental problems and to bring solutions to these problems from their own perspectives. Qulitative research technique such as document review technique was used as data collection tool. 111 students (63 females and 48 males) wrote compositions about environmental problems and proposed solutions. Majority of the students thought of visual pollution and air pollution when environmental matters were mentioned and they proposed solutions regarding these problems. In addition to these, the students mentioned global warming, destruction of forests, erosion and unplanned urbanization when they were reflecting their ideas on water, soil, noise and nuclear pollution. The students had interesting analysis and brought various solutions to the problems by suggesting awareness raising campaigns, providing educational seminars by the government, broadcasting TV programmes related to the matter and increasing criminal sanctions towards environmental crimes.