Creating Awareness of Natural Resources Conservation in the Agricultural School Network

Abstract

This research aimed to explore the challenges and methods for raising awareness about natural resources conservation within the agricultural school network. It also sought to study the approaches used by agricultural student teachers to foster this awareness and to observe the behavior of students regarding natural resources and environmental conservation. The research was conducted in two phases. The first phase focused on identifying problems and methods for conserving natural resources and the environment in schools. The second phase utilized participatory action research to enhance awareness of natural resources and environmental conservation. In phase one, data were collected through questionnaires and interviews involving 23 teacher mentors, 19 student teachers, and 14 KMITL supervisors. In phase two, unstructured interviews and focus groups were conducted with five student-teacher volunteers and their mentors. The findings revealed that schools faced moderate issues related to natural resources and the environment but had high-level guidelines for conservation and awareness-raising. Student teachers effectively promoted awareness by integrating agricultural content, engaging in various activities, and using positive reinforcement. Conservation methods included economical use, reuse, and substitution with alternative materials. The study found that students’ behaviors towards natural resources and environmental conservation improved significantly when guided by student teachers.