Young people envision the future of their local area: an explorative study from the Wet Tropics, Australia

Abstract

In this article we present the results from an exploratory study conducted in the Wet Tropics in Australia. The study was initiated as part of a larger research program to support the development of a water quality improvement plan. Seven schools were invited to participate in this study. Students were asked to develop visions for the future of their local area. Results suggest that integrating a futures perspective into formal educational programs provides a mechanism to connect students with their local community and their local environment, and at the same time, encourages critical thinking and environmental citizenship beyond the classroom.