The role of sociodemographic characteristics and educational institutions in the conservation of cultural heritage

Abstract

The objective of this study is to evaluate how students’ level of awareness of cultural heritage differs in Amasya University based on several variables including sociodemographic structure and field of study. This study uses the data obtained from a total of 719 students attending Amasya University in the spring semester of the 2021–2022 academic year. Data were collected using the questionnaire form of the cultural heritage scale developed by the researchers. Independent sampling t test and ANOVA technique were used for the variables that assume normal distribution. Tukey HSD test was used to determine differences between groups. The study findings demonstrate that cultural heritage awareness level of undergraduate students was higher than those in associate degree programs; students whose families live in the city centre have higher cultural heritage awareness than those whose families live in districts and villages; 4th year students had higher cultural heritage awareness than 3rd, 2nd and 1st year students; the students in the Department of Teacher Education and Religious Studies Department had higher cultural heritage awareness than the students in Architecture and Engineering Departments. The study findings underline the importance of improving usage awareness, conservation awareness and responsibility awareness regarding cultural heritage. Therefore, educational institutions at all levels should develop solid policies and action plans to promote and protect cultural heritage assets. This study emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage awareness, encouraging relevant parties to take concrete steps for conservation and management of cultural heritage.