Learning Ecologies and Development of Interest in Nature: An Examination of Gen-Z Naturalists (Poster 9)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Thursday 3:35 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Informal Learning Environments Research Poster Session

Abstract

Studies suggest that a child’s connection with nature and stewardship tendencies may be critical for new generations facing increasingly pressing environmental challenges. This study investigates the formative experiences (including technology use) of Generation Z university students as related to their interest development in nature. Retrospective accounts by those identified as ‘novice naturalists’ point to family activities and youth programs as important childhood experiences in nature. Findings are mostly consistent with a similar study (Hecht et al., 2019) examining an older generation of naturalists. In this study, technology was found to play a positive role in nature experiences, contrary to earlier research, suggesting that technologies used by ‘digital natives’ might in fact support development of future naturalists.

Authors

• Zoe Allen, California State University - Long Beach

• James F. Kisiel, California State University - Long Beach