Key sustainability competences of university students: A systematic literature review of assessment methodologies, methods, and instruments

In recent years, empirical research has focused on the assessment of Key Sustainability Competences (KSCs) of university students. This study explored the methodologies, methods, and instruments used to measure the KSCs of university students. We identified the most efficient methodologies, methods, and instruments by investigating their strengths and weaknesses. We conducted a systematic literature review to analyze the methodologies, methods, and instruments used for assessing the KSCs of university students. A total of 37 reports, published from 2013 to 2026, were reviewed. The study employed the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology to ensure rigor and transparency. Psychometric properties were assessed according to COSMIN criteria, and the certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. The review revealed a broad range of methodologies, methods, and instruments applied for the assessment of KSCs of university students. Quantitative methodologies are favored in comparison to qualitative or mixed-method ones. Scaled instruments are often used for summative assessment purposes. Triangulation of methods is recommended for robust assessments. However, researchers seldom report the psychometric properties of the instruments employed; when such information was provided, it was typically supported by high-certainty evidence. The findings have implications for research in KSCs assessment. • A broad range of methodologies, methods, and instruments is applied for the assessment of KSCs of university students. • Scaled instruments are often used for summative assessment purposes. • Existing assessment instruments overlook COSMIN criteria of evaluation of psychometric properties and lack evidence quality.