Influence of an Environmental Studies Course on Attitudes of Undergraduates at an Engineering University

Studies suggest that at engineering universities, where the percentage of males and engineering majors is high, pro-environmental attitudes are likely to be weak and may not change. The 15-item New Ecological Paradigm (NEP) scale was used to measure differences in student attitudes before and after an environmental studies course. Results revealed students held more pro-environmental attitudes about the validity of the ecological crisis, the existence of resource constraints, and the delicacy of nature's balance after the course. Students did not shift their views regarding the domination of humans over the environment or their belief in human ingenuity to overcome resource limits. Engineering majors showed weaker endorsement of the NEP compared to non-engineering majors, but the increase in their endorsement after the course was statistically significant.     

Page 22 The Organizaitonal Scan

Performance technologists are likely to face at least two kinds of large-scale efforts. In one, the performance technologist is presented with a big issue to address; in the other, with a big program to make successful. This presents problems in implementing analysis: the results of the analysis must correspond to the size of the effort, but the project's sponsors want to see progress. The ideal approach, then, would be one that produces short-term benefits yet is not expensive or time-consuming. The organizational scan model can help performance technologists do a complete analysis without running up costs or wasting time. The keyword is “scan,” for the performance technologist will review the processes and traits of the organization, yet not place the organization under a microscope. The model is systemic, comprehensive, manageable, and communicable. It will help the performance technologist to identify actions that can be taken immediately to improve performance. From there the performance technologist can set priorities and plan further interventions to be used as necessary.