Children's Models of Understanding of Two Major Global Environmental Issues (Ozone Layer and Greenhouse Effect)

• DOI: 10.1080/0263514970150102
• Publication Date: 2007-07-08T17:16:53Z
• Authors: Edward Boyes; Martin Stanisstreet
• Keywords: Ozone Depletion; Greenhouse effect; Montreal Protocol

Abstract This work sets out to quantify the dominant models that 13 and 14 year‐old children hold of causes greenhouse effect ozone layer depletion. In particular, it attempts assess prevalence those ideas which, in minds some, link two phenomena. It would seem about twice as many (around 80%) think holes cause than damage. The most common suggested connection 60% children) appears be somehow allow more solar energy arrive at earth, no distinction being made between heat rays ultra‐violet rays. Other, bizarre, models, which assume global warming is a consequence depletion, find 20% approval. Of constitute causal opposite direction, view smoke pollution rise, or rise greater heights, this damages layer. Other are also identified discussed.