Environmental Consciousness And Scientific Knowledge Among Science Stream Students In Higher Education: Rural–Urban Perspectives

This study investigated environmental consciousness and scientific knowledge among science stream students in higher education institutions across rural and urban areas of India. A quantitative research approach was employed involving 400 undergraduate science students (200 from rural and 200 from urban institutions) in Madhya Pradesh and surrounding regions. The hypothesis tested whether urban science students demonstrate significantly higher environmental consciousness and scientific knowledge compared to their rural counterparts. Data collection utilized standardized instruments including the Environmental Awareness Scale and Scientific Attitude Questionnaire. Results revealed significant differences with urban students scoring higher in environmental consciousness (Mean=172.45, SD=18.32) compared to rural students (Mean=156.78, SD=21.54) at p<0.01 level. Similarly, scientific knowledge scores demonstrated urban advantage (Mean=68.34 vs. 59.12). Gender analysis showed female students exhibited marginally higher environmental consciousness than males across both settings. The findings underscore the need for strengthening environmental education infrastructure in rural institutions and implementing stream-specific curriculum interventions. This research contributes valuable insights for policymakers and educators to bridge the rural-urban gap in environmental literacy and scientific temperament development.