Gender Differences in Environmental Sustainability Attitudes among Pre-Service Science Teachers in Selected Teacher Training Colleges in Tanzania

Abstract

This study aimed to assess gender differences in sustainability attitudes among pre-service teachers in Tanzania. A total of 926 pre-service science teachers (486 males and 440 females) from five teacher training colleges participated in the study. Data were collected using a questionnaire which essentially measured the participants’ sustainability attitudes. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and an independent sample t-test were employed to analyze the data. The results revealed that pre-service teachers generally exhibited positive sustainability attitudes, with an average mean score of 3.96.  However, no significant gender differences between male and female pre-service teachers were found in sustainability attitudes (t(924) = 1.455, p = 0.146).  The study recommends educational institutions prioritize on innovative pedagogical approaches that instill environmental responsibility to all students.  Future research should explore other factors beyond gender that may affect sustainability attitudes.