Opinions of university education students on degrowth training: a quantitative study

Abstract

The ecological crisis and climate change threaten life on the planet. Degrowth is seen as the most effective way to avoid possible eco-technological collapse and to learn to live more simply, so that others can simply live. The training of teachers in degrowth, both initial and permanent, becomes a priority for the Higher Education of future generations. The purpose of this research was to analyse the opinion of 348 students of Education degrees (Bachelor and Master) regarding the ecological crisis and degrowth, and their opinion on the need for training on these issues in Higher Education. The quantitative research methodology was carried out using a Likert-type questionnaire with 10 closed questions, allowing for a descriptive-interpretative and factorial analysis of the data obtained. The results show that the participants perceive the seriousness of the ecological crisis and, although they do not have an in-depth knowledge of the concept of degrowth, they consider that education in and for degrowth should be introduced into the educational system in order to change the paradigm of infinite development of a finite and consumerist planet as a form of social fulfilment and happiness. It is concluded that systematic, permanent and indepth university teacher training on degrowth is necessary as an effective and necessary alternative to face the current global crisis and that the questionnaire has been an appropriate instrument to find out the students’ opinions.