Student Teacher Understanding of the Greenhouse Effect, Ozone Layer Depletion and Acid Rain

SUMMARY This paper provides an overview and discussion of a study of student teachers’ knowledge and understanding of the greenhouse effect, ozone layer depletion and acid rain. It describes the results of a small scale survey designed to ascertain details of student knowledge and misconceptions about these environmental issues. The study reveals familiarity with the term ‘greenhouse effect’, but little understanding of the concepts involved. One common misconception is that the greenhouse effect is the result of ozone layer depletion. In contrast, there is a clear understanding that the ozone layer protects the Earth from harmful radiation and that it is currently being destroyed by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Burning coal is linked to the formation of acid rain, but there is little appreciation of why trees in Scandinavia are being destroyed by this process. Recommendations for lecturers and student teachers are made from the findings.