Uncovering Gender Differences in Water Literacy among High Schoolers

Abstract

This study aims to look into gender-based differences in high school students' water literacy knowledge, attitudes, and values. Utilizing a simple and stratified random sample procedure, 380 fourth graders from eight schools in Hulu Langat, Selangor, were selected to participate. The data were gathered using a 5-part questionnaire that had sections for respondent information, scientific knowledge, hydrosocial knowledge, attitudes, and water literacy values. A two-way MANOVA was used to examine inferential data. Male and female students scored significantly differently on average, with female students surpassing male students in knowledge and attitudes, according to the results. The value of water literacy does not differ significantly across male and female students. The results of this study may be useful in identifying knowledge and comprehension gaps regarding water-related issues, which could help in the development of educational materials and programmes as well as people with high levels of water literacy in terms of attitudes and values.