Factors Impacting Intended Climate Change Behaviors: Exploring the At-Home Learning Environment of Diverse Families

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: Climate Change Learning With Youth and Families

Abstract

This dissertation study examines factors related to the intended climate change behaviors in diverse, middle school students and their families in rural southeastern United States. Afterschool STEM Club students and their families utilized their homes as informal learning environments. Families discussed local and global climate change issues while viewing video documentaries and during interviews at their school sites. Using the Determinants of Behavior model of climate change, audio data was coded to examine family discussions. This population most often talked about climate change knowledge, behaviors, and the seriousness of the problem. This study showed that families in rural, high poverty communities were eager to learn with and from their children, dispelling myths of lack of family involvement or interest.

Authors

• Kristie Gutierrez, Old Dominion University

• Margaret R. Blanchard, North Carolina State University