Exploring the Emerging Theory for the Development of Responsible Environmental Behavior

Abstract

“How responsible environmental behavior can be developed among our students?” was the question I explored through grounded theory research approach under qualitative research design. The purpose of my study was to explore the emerging theories related to the development of responsible environmental behavior and its implication in education. The study group was selected by theoretical sampling technique which included ten secondary level students, four female and six male, studying in various public and private schools. The current study uncovered various theories from the ground that essentially recognized students’ conscientious actions upon the environment that are attributable to increased level of cognitive capability which serve as a contributing factor to the wider transfer of acquired knowledge and skills in the society and to induce a shift from the existing reality to a new reality where a new ‘habitus’ is created with an emphasis in transferring their environmental concern in their daily lives. Students produce and reproduce society in its cultural, social, and economic dimensions through a cyclical process of learning where emphasis is placed on gaining positive reflection through the experience along with expectation from the significant person, need of reinforcement and need of cultivating habit. Environment is a prime concern of the society-society needs to be widely and largely benefited from the learning of the students. We have many rich cultures within our surroundings, if the understanding of teaching and learning can reflect upon the understanding with one another, we can open new doors for understanding and inquiry for our students. Thus these theories captured by the research findings can be an important aspect to be i adopted in the Nepalese education system in pedagogical aspect of responsible environmental behavior, an ultimate goal of environmental education. Key Words: Environmental Education, Emerging Theories, and Responsible Environmental Behavior. An abstract of the thesis of Anjana Shakya for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Education was presented on November 26, 2009.