The strategic role of conservation education in efforts to improve biodiversity literacy: a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36681/tused.2025.019Keywords:
Biodiversity literacy, conservation education, learning models, curriculum integrationAbstract
Biodiversity literacy is becoming increasingly important in the era of globalisation to understand and conserve various forms of life on Earth. Education plays a crucial role in improving biodiversity literacy, but this aspect is often underemphasized in formal and non-formal education. This study aims to analyse the strategic role of conservation education in improving biodiversity literacy through a systematic review of 25 relevant articles, selected using the PRISMA framework. These articles were sourced from reputable international journals indexed in Scopus and Google Scholar. The findings indicate that biodiversity literacy can be enhanced through various innovative learning models that integrate technology, such as virtual reality and mobile applications, to improve learning experiences, motivation, and student engagement. However, the study lacks direct empirical measurements of this improvement, highlighting the need for further research to quantify its impact. Additionally, direct learning approaches that incorporate nature-based experiences have been effective in fostering environmental awareness, though this finding is primarily drawn from the literature review rather than new empirical evidence. Integrating biodiversity literacy into curricula through multidisciplinary approaches and local knowledge is also beneficial for promoting students' understanding and conservation behavior. However, challenges such as the lack of appropriate teaching methods and the need for curriculum adjustments persist. To address these issues, a holistic and integrated educational approach is recommended, incorporating technology, hands-on experiences, and local knowledge. By implementing these strategies, conservation education can not only enhance biodiversity literacy but also cultivate a generation that is more environmentally conscious and committed to conservation efforts.
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