Students^ Sustainability Awareness in Environmental Education: Exploring the Role of Creativity and Cognitive Competence Zulkarnaen Zulkarnaen1 , and Muhlisin Muhlisin2,3
1 Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University, Serang-Banten, Indonesia 42117
2Regional Development Planning Agency of Banten Province, Serang - Banten, Indonesia 42417
3Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Banten Jaya University, Serang-Banten, Indonesia 42117
Abstract
Sustainability awareness is a crucial aspect of environmental education, aiming to equip students with the knowledge, values, and attitudes needed for sustainable development. This study profiles students^ sustainability awareness based on their levels of creativity and cognitive skills. Conducted at SMAN 1 Ciasem, Subang, West Java, the research used a descriptive quantitative approach with data collected through standardized questionnaires. Cross-tabulation analysis showed that increasing cognitive ability does not always correspond to higher sustainability awareness. However, higher creativity levels are associated with a lower likelihood of low sustainability awareness. Chi-square and symmetric correlation tests (Kendall^s tau-b) revealed no significant relationship between cognitive ability and sustainability awareness. In contrast, a significant positive-though weak to moderate-relationship was found between creativity and sustainability awareness. These findings suggest the importance of integrating creative and cognitive skill development in environmental education. Promoting critical and creative thinking may enhance student engagement with sustainability issues and prepare them to become responsible global citizens. The study emphasizes the need for holistic educational strategies that balance intellectual and imaginative capacities to address environmental challenges effectively.
