Perceptions of Sustainability in Higher Education: A Study in Social and Economic Sciences

Abstract

Current environmental challenges are the result of uncontrolled urban sprawl and the overexploitation of nature. To address these challenges, it is necessary to promote the learning and adoption of sustainable practices in the academic training of new generations of professionals. In this context, the purpose of this study was to analyze the knowledge of students and faculty in the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences at a Venezuelan public university about sustainability and its implications for their field of study. A case study was conducted with a mixed-methods research approach, using data collection techniques such as semi-structured interviews with (8) faculty members and a questionnaire addressed to (96) students regarding sustainability and its importance for their professional development. The results showed that the study subjects have a limited perception of sustainability and are mostly unaware of two of its three dimensions. The most frequently found associations with sustainability were related to environmental stewardship and recycling. Participants were found to be interested in receiving training on sustainability in their field of specialization and beginning to implement behaviors that promote environmental stewardship.