A model for developing and assessing youth-based environmental engagement programmes

In this paper, we argue that a fundamental cultural shift is needed to effectively address anthropogenic causes of climate change. Evidence suggests that youth are well positioned to create such transformation. While various studies have contributed empirical evidence to numerous youth-based non-for...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Environmental education research 2014-07, Vol.20 (4), p.552-574
Main Authors: Riemer, Manuel, Lynes, Jennifer, Hickman, Gina
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
action competence
Canada
Children & youth
Citizen Participation
Climate
Climate change
culture of sustainability
engagement
environment
Environmental Education
Evidence
Evidence Based Practice
Foreign Countries
global climate change
non-formal environmental education
Program Development
Program Evaluation
Sustainability
Youth
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Summary:In this paper, we argue that a fundamental cultural shift is needed to effectively address anthropogenic causes of climate change. Evidence suggests that youth are well positioned to create such transformation. While various studies have contributed empirical evidence to numerous youth-based non-formal environmental engagement programmes, what is missing in the environmental education literature is discussion of a systematic approach to the development and evaluation of these programs. In this paper, we draw on the youth civic engagement literature to propose a framework that can be used as a basis to guide further development of evidence-based practices. Five major components are described as follows: (1) the engagement activity; (2) the engagement process; (3) initiating and sustaining factors; (4) mediators and moderators; and (5) outcomes. This approach to youth engagement can inform both researchers trying to study effective ways of creating change and practitioners developing environmental programmes that aspire towards a culture of sustainability.
ISSN:1350-4622
1469-5871
DOI:10.1080/13504622.2013.812721