AbstractsGeography &GIS

In the spring semester of 2007, a random survey was distributed to 170 Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) students. The objectives of this research were to look for relationships between age, gender, education and media and the environment and global climate change. The results of the study did speak to possible relationships between the original four hypothesis: H1: The older you are, the more likely you are to be aware of the issues of global climate change. Results for questions 8, 10, and 14, determined that participants ages 29+ heard more about global climate change; felt they understood global climate change more; and had heard or read about international agreements Kyoto and Bonn. Analysis demonstrated that there are relationships between age and global climate change and that the older the participant, the greater the awareness level of global climate change. H2: There are differences in perceptions and awareness levels of global climate change between males and females. Results for questions 8, 9, 10, 12,14,18,19, 20, and 22 determined that more males than females had heard about global climate change; thought global climate change was having a serious impact now; understood global climate change better; believed global climate change is caused by normal climate patterns; had heard or read about Kyoto and Bonn agreements; identified themselves as “environmentalists”; listened to the daily news more often; and thought that the media was not a reliable news source for global climate change than female participants. The survey results suggest that gender does determine a difference in perceptions and awareness of global climate change. H3: The more education one has, the more aware they are of the effects of global climate change. Results for questions no. 8, 10, 14, and 15, determined that upperclassmen knew more about global climate change; felt they better understood global climate change; and had heard or read about the Kyoto and Bonn international agreements and approved of the limits they instill on greenhouse gas emissions. The survey results suggest that there are relationships between the level of education or “Academic Year” of the participants and understanding of global climate change. H4: The frequency and type of media one is exposed to will influence the level of awareness of global climate change. Results for questions no. 19 and 20 determined that a majority of older participants, ages 29+, read or listened to the daily news and at a greater frequency than younger participants, ages 18-28. Results for questions no. 19, 20, and 22 determined that more male than female participants read or listened to the daily news at a greater frequency and believe that the media is not a reliable source for information regarding global climate change. Results for questions no. 19, 20, 21, and 22 determined that more upperclassmen than underclassmen read or listen to the daily news and at a greater frequency; are more interested in global issues; and believe that the media is a…