Assessing the Environmental Literacy Requirement at the University of Georgia

Abstract

The University of Georgia (UGA) is one of the first universities in the United States to require that every undergraduate student complete an environmental literacy requirement (ELR). The ELR has been in place since 1993. Three students examined the ELR through formal and informal studies and surveys. Their results showed that students were enthusiastic about the ELR and that they welcomed increased knowledge about the environment. Faculty thought that the ELR was useful but were dissatisfied with the criteria defining environmental literacy. The studies showed that there was wide interest and acceptance of an ELR but that lack of coordination and leadership has resulted in debate about its role in the institution. Although debate threatens the survival of this special requirement, modest changes in the ELR will likely save it. The experiences of UGA will be of value to other academic institutions contemplating a broad environmental requirement.

Keywords:

• curriculum
• environmental education
• environmental literacy
• human environment