The potential of community-based sustainability projects for deep learning initiatives

Document Type

Article

Abstract

This paper provides and illustrates a generic framework for deep learning in a Sustainability-based course for higher education instruction. The use of Sustainability Consulting Projects is detailed with potential application to similar programs as part of their Sustainable Education curriculum. Using four disparate institutions of higher learning across the eastern coast of the United States we can complete an exploratory analysis of the framework. This analysis will provide us opportunity to identify and characterize community sustainability projects and their contribution to higher order, integrative and reflective learning. This deep learning framework and model will be helpful to curriculum developers and instructors who wish to introduce these types of projects into their courses and curriculum. These processes and tools may be integrated into current Sustainability Management courses or used as the basis for development of specific courses focused specifically on this topic; e.g., Sustainability Consulting or as a capstone course. Lessons learned and framework design and implementation provide opportunities for further research and development of these courses. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Publication Title

Journal of Cleaner Production

Publication Date

1-1-2014

Volume

62

First Page

48

Last Page

61

ISSN

0959-6526

DOI

10.1016/j.jclepro.2013.07.001

Keywords

community-based projects, deep learning, high impact educational practices, stakeholder management, sustainability consulting, sustainable development

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS