Denison Scientific Association: Assessing Sustainability Knowledge, Behaviors, and Skills in Higher Education

March 31, 2026 - 00:30

A new study spearheaded by the Denison Scientific Association is casting a critical eye on how well higher education institutions are preparing students for environmental challenges. The research, led by Dr. Kristina Slagle of the Sustainability & Environmental Studies program, assessed the sustainability knowledge, daily behaviors, and practical skills of undergraduates across multiple disciplines.

The findings reveal a complex and often inconsistent picture. While many students demonstrate strong awareness of broad environmental issues and express positive attitudes toward sustainability, this does not always translate into actionable skills or consistent eco-friendly behaviors. The survey identified significant gaps between theoretical understanding and the practical application of that knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Dr. Slagle emphasizes that the results highlight a crucial opportunity for academic development. "Knowledge alone is insufficient," she notes. "Our data suggests that colleges must more intentionally bridge the divide between awareness and action by embedding hands-on, skill-based learning into curricula across all majors." The study advocates for educational models that move beyond lecture-based learning to include community projects, operational campus partnerships, and problem-solving labs that build tangible competencies. This shift, researchers argue, is essential for graduating a generation capable of implementing effective and innovative sustainability solutions in their future careers and communities.