Exploring the perceptions and understanding of environmental sustainability among education students at the University of Oulu : a phenomenographic study

Abstract

This master’s thesis explores how students in the Intercultural Teacher Education (ITE) programme at the University of Oulu understand and feel prepared about addressing Environmental Sustainability (ES) in their future professional roles as primary school teachers. The study gathers data through semi-structured interviews with eight students using a qualitative approach and progresses through phenomenography as the research methodology. The study finds that while many participants feel confident in their theoretical understanding of ES, many find it difficult to translate this knowledge into practical classroom strategies in the future. Some feel overwhelmed by the complexity of the topic, while others feel a lack of specific tools and hands-on training. Some of the participants report feeling more confident, driven by personal interest and passion for the subject. Those who have pursued optional learning opportunities, such as elective courses related to sustainability also demonstrate confidence. The study finds that while ES is addressed holistically across topics like social justice and ethics, the gap between theory and practice might be seen as a challenge. The study suggests that future research might explore how cultural and societal factors shape perceptions of ES and investigate how teacher education programs can better support pre-service teachers in becoming confident advocates for ES in the classroom.