Perception of Climate in North Carolina

Geographers strive for a better understanding of how man perceives the world in which he lives. Environmental perception is a strategic concern within geography; and climate is an integral factor influencing man's responses to the complex environment. This study focuses on climatic perception, which constitutes an integral aspect of environmental awareness. Much work has been done in the field of environmental perception. Studies have dealt with the environmental in general, the perception of weather terminology and forecasting effectiveness, and specific climatic extremes or hazards such as flood and drought. However, research concerning the perception of general climatic conditions is lacking. The primary objective of this study is to analyze the climatic perception of in-state college students in North Carolina by means of a questionnaire. The analysis has a twofold aim: 1. examine the students' perceptions of general climatic conditions (including air and water quality) in North Carolina. 2. investigate the possibility of significant differences in perception between students from different parts of North Carolina.