Influences of Learning Approaches, Student Engagement, and Satisfaction with Learning on Measures of Sustainable Behavior in a Social Sciences Student Sample

Abstract

In this empirical study, we address the relationship between the dimensions of learning in higher education (i.e., student engagement, approaches to learning, and satisfaction with learning) and sustainability (i.e., austerity altruistic, pro-ecological and equitable behavior). The results demonstrate that there is a positive linear relationship between engagement with learning and deep and strategic approaches, motivation and strategies, and altruistic, equitable and pro-ecological behavior. Austerity, however, only correlated with high dedication to learning. Satisfaction with learning was associated with altruistic and equitable behavior and an overall measure of sustainability, and was independently associated with austerity and pro-ecological behavior. Engagement with learning was associated with sustainable behavior, especially with altruistic and pro-ecological behavior in its three expressions, namely, vigor, absorption and dedication. In contrast, austerity was found to be only associated with engagement with learning. As a whole, and in line with Bronfenbrenner’s theory, the results of this study suggest that the aforementioned systems are interconnected and mutually influence each other.