Factors Affecting the Effectiveness of Environmental Education in Iran; A Research Synthesis of Findings

Abstract

Considering the rising trend in conducting research on environmental education, the present study attempted to compile the results of all research having done on the field of environmental education in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Then, in addition to combining the results, it can achieve a single and consistent view of effective factors indomestic environmental education. The research method is the research synthesis and its statistical population consisted of all valid scientific articles available in the field of environmental education. Regarding regular search in domestic databases, 206001 scientific articles were identified based on including criteria. But finally, 78 articles were selected for final analysis based on exclusion criteria. To collect the data, a researcher-made worksheet form was designed to report and record the research data. For analyzing the findings, Roberts’six-step research synthesis model was employed via open and axial coding methods. According to the obtained findings, environmental education, as it increases environmental knowledge and sensitivity, is considered as the most important method for educating individuals in identifying and coping with biological problems. In this regard, what has affected the effectiveness of this training was itself influenced by six factors of need assessment, use of educational methods, formal education, informal education, public education, and lifelong education. According to the findings, formal education has encountered shortages and weaknesses, while informal education has been more effective in this regard.

Keywords

• environmental education
• effective factors
• research synthesis