A draw-and-explain task and questionnaire were used to explore Taiwanese undergraduate students' mental models of the environment and whether and how they relate to their environmental affect and behavioral commitment. We found that students generally held incomplete mental models of the environment, focusing on objects rather than on processes or…

A survey covering the scientific and social aspects of climate change was administered to examine U.S. undergraduate student mental models, and compare knowledge between groups based on major and environmental group membership. A Knowledge Score (scale 0-35, mean score = 17.84) was generated for respondents at two, central East Coast, U.S.…

The current study aimed to establish Turkish preservice teachers' mental models of the environment and to determine the relationship these models have with gender and grade level. The study group comprised 463 Turkish preservice teachers from primary school education and preschool education departments. The data from the study were collected from…

Discusses a model that enables systematic input from external sources during the interpretive planning process. Results indicate that the Ecotourist Needs Assessment (ETNA) is a feasible way to inform the planning process and better meet the needs of ecotourists. Contains 24 references. (DDR)

Outlines a cognitive model of visitors based on the concept of mindfulness/mindlessness. Presents an analysis of data on visitors to forestry centers in the United Kingdom. Results support the mindfulness approach as an appropriate cognitive model of visitors. (Author/CW)

Analyzes environmental knowledge of high school students using a national probability sample. Results indicate that students can recognize basic facts regarding environmental issues but are unable to apply this knowledge to comprehend consequences or solutions related to the problems. Contains 20 references. (DDR)

Discusses research on classroom-type settings and applications. Results indicate an association between knowledge and affect along with prominent sex differences. Cites the need for further research to determine how knowledge and attitudes influence each other. Contains 27 references. (DDR)

Assesses the understanding that a sample of Oregon public school students (n=159) had of geology, physical and chemical characteristics, ecology, and natural resources as related to a marine environment. Results indicate that student understanding in some areas does not progress beyond the early grades and that the interdisciplinary approach of…

Explained are differences in communication, perception, arousal, and motivation for both teaching and learning styles. Experiential education is distinguished from experiential learning, and salient educational strategies are integrated into the educational cycle. (Author/CW)

Scientists have used educational presentations and "bug banquets" to alter widespread negative attitudes toward invertebrates. In this article, the authors explore whether such presentations have a measurable affect on attitudes. Junior high, high school, and university students completed an attitude survey focusing on invertebrates in…

Compares the results of surveys done in 1975 and 1985 with Indiana teachers regarding their physical environment and related problems. Results indicated that teachers had limited environmental literacy but had higher marks in 1985 than in 1975. (TW)

The importance of teaching to the affective domain is discussed in this review of the environmental education literature. Eight major ideas are used to summarize the research cited. Lists 63 references. (CW)