A MIXED-METHOD STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF SUSTAINABILITY TRAINING IN PRESERVICE TEACHER EDUCATION TO ADDRESS POLITICAL ECONOMY, AND EDUCATIONAL CHALLENGES IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study explored the impact of integrating sustainability training into preservice teacher education programs to address political economy and educational emergencies. A mixed-method approach was employed to gather data both qualitatively and quantitatively. The accessible population comprised 120 preservice teachers from the 7th semester (final year) of the B.Ed. (Hons.) program, enrolled in a teacher education program at a public sector university in Punjab, Pakistan. In line with the demographic variables, the accessible population was divided into two strata. The sample was collected through stratified random sampling, ensuring equal and fair representation of each participant. Concept-based, homogeneous pre- and post-training achievement tests determined a significant difference in the confidence levels of preservice teachers who received traditional training and those who received training integrated with sustainability principles in education. Moreover, the Sustainability in Teaching Self-Efficacy Scale (STSES) measured the extent of improvement in preservice teachers' awareness and confidence levels after observing the application of training integrated with sustainability principles in their teaching practices. A significant increase was observed in sustainability awareness (ranging from 15% to 60%) and in the confidence levels of preservice teachers (ranging from 15% to 45%) after this integrated training. Global educational challenges were tackled through preservice teachers' preparedness through integrated training, which enhanced their level of awareness, confidence, persistence, and skills in sustainability. The findings of the study supported the promotion of sustainable classrooms and recommended making sustainable courses a mandatory part of teacher education curricula to facilitate continuous professional development. Government initiatives required strong partnerships between public and private sectors to effectively reinforce sustainable development.