Transformative Education for Sustainable Development: Building Resilience through Environmental Literacy among Students of Initao College
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64807/129zef60Abstract
This study examines the influence of Transformative Education for Sustainable Development (TESD) on the environmental literacy and resilience of students enrolled in the Environmental Science course at Initao College, a rural higher education institution in Misamis Oriental, Philippines. Grounded in UNESCO’s framework on Education for Sustainable Development, the research responds to the increasing demand for academic institutions to cultivate sustainability competencies that enable learners to address complex ecological issues. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the study first collected quantitative data from Bachelor of Elementary Education students via a researcher-developed survey, followed by qualitative thematic analysis of open-ended responses to contextualize the quantitative results. Findings reveal a high level of TESD implementation across four dimensions: curriculum integration, values formation, community immersion, and student-led initiatives. Students exhibited strong environmental literacy and resilience across knowledge, practical skills, attitudes, and community involvement. Statistical analysis indicated significant positive correlations (rs = .785, p < .001) between transformative learning experiences and environmental literacy outcomes, with student-led initiatives showing particularly strong associations. Qualitative results further highlighted enhanced environmental awareness, increased motivation to participate in sustainability projects, development of ecological values, and greater application of learning to real-life contexts. However, challenges emerged, including limited community cooperation, insufficient facilities and resources, personal motivational barriers, and cultural norms that impede sustainable practices. In response, the study proposes Project LUNTIAN, a localized and institutionalized environmental education initiative designed to embed sustainability in the curriculum, promote student leadership, strengthen community partnerships, and align with Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDGs 4, 11, 13, and 15. Overall, the study underscores the potential of transformative sustainability education to foster environmentally responsible and resilient learners who can contribute to community-based ecological stewardship.
Keywords:
Environmental Literacy, Transformative Education, Sustainable Development, Student Engagement, , Project LUNTIANReferences
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