Exploring the Ocean Literacy of Taiwanese College Students: A Hybrid Qualitative and Quantitative Study

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Exploring the Ocean Literacy of Taiwanese College Students: A Hybrid Qualitative and Quantitative Study
Language: English
Authors: Rui-Hsin Kao (ORCID 0000-0002-8908-3206), Nein-Tsu Chiang, Ya-Lan Yang
Source: Environmental Education Research. 2026 32(3):838-856.
Availability: Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 19
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Knowledge Level, Oceanography, Water, Multiple Literacies, College Students, Student Attitudes, Student Behavior, Ecology, Student Participation, Experiential Learning, Hands on Science, Interdisciplinary Approach, Field Experience Programs, Internship Programs, Educational Technology, Conservation (Environment), Sustainability, Climate, Marine Education
Geographic Terms: Taiwan
DOI: 10.1080/13504622.2025.2543004
ISSN: 1350-4622
1469-5871
Abstract: Ocean literacy (OL) plays a critical role in fostering environmental responsibility and promoting sustainable ocean governance. This study investigates the OL levels of college students in Taiwan's outlying islands through a mixed-methods approach, examining cognitive (knowledge), affective (emotional connection and attitudes), and behavioral (practical engagement) dimensions. We conducted a survey (n = 138) and in-depth interviews (n = 7) to analyze disciplinary variations and the influence of educational structures on OL. The results indicate that while students possess basic marine ecological knowledge, significant gaps exist in policy literacy, governance awareness, and action-oriented competencies. Emotional experiences and hands-on participation in marine activities significantly influence students' environmental attitudes, yet there exists a gap between awareness and action due to insufficient educational interventions and practical opportunities. To address these gaps, this study proposes interdisciplinary curriculum integration, experiential learning through fieldwork and internships, and digital platforms for marine education (ME) accessibility. Strengthening policy advocacy and institutional support for ME is also crucial. These findings provide empirical evidence for enhancing OL in higher education and contribute to the global discourse on sustainability education.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1503030
Database: ERIC
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