STUDENTS' EXPERIENCES WITH E-WASTE AND SUSTAINABLE DIGITAL PRACTICES: A THEMATIC ANALYSIS

The rapid integration of digital technologies in educational contexts has resulted in unprecedented benefits for students but has also raised pressing concerns about electronic waste (e-waste) and sustainable digital practices. This study explores trainee teachers’ awareness, perceptions, and practices regarding the disposal of electronic devices, updating and maintaining digital infrastructure, and adopting environmentally responsible behaviors in technology use. Data were collected through open-ended survey questions administered to 25 trainee teachers. A thematic analysis approach was employed to identify recurring patterns in the responses, focusing particularly on issues of device disposal, software updates, and app installation practices. Three overarching themes emerged: (i) Awareness of Environmental and Digital Risks, (ii) Responsible and Sustainable Digital Practices, and (iii) Emergent Gaps in Digital Citizenship and Sustainability Awareness. Word cloud visualizations and code-theme matrices were used to illustrate participant responses. The findings indicate that while many students recognize the importance of secure and sustainable digital behaviors, gaps persist in structured knowledge and systematic e-waste management practices. The study highlights the need to integrate sustainability-oriented digital literacy modules within teacher education curricula to cultivate environmentally conscious digital citizens.