Abstract
This paper presents the outcomes of a curriculum investigation project, awarded a prestigious British Curriculum Forum (BCF) Curriculum Investigation Grant by the British Education Research Association (BERA). The research project focuses on the design and development of an introductory module addressing critical themes of climate change, social justice, and sustainability. The authors share their experience in designing and developing an introductory module (undergraduate Level 4) on climate change, social justice, and sustainability. This project is based on a pioneering approach that empowers students as co-creators of the curriculum, giving them a central role in shaping their learning experiences. Utilising mixed methods, the study employs an innovative curriculum design and development process by granting students a voice and ownership in shaping their learning opportunities. This paper illustrates how this collaborative approach influences students’ perceptions, attitudes, and engagement with the module design and development process. It also examines whether involving students as co-creators fosters a deeper understanding of complex concepts, increased motivation, and a stronger commitment to sustainability principles. The implications of this research are significant for educational practitioners and policymakers. By emphasising the transformative potential of involving students as co-creators in their own learning experiences, this paper highlights the importance of pedagogical approaches that foster active engagement with complex global challenges to promote changes in local actions. Furthermore, it sheds light on the potential for curricular innovation to drive behavioural change not only at the individual level but also within broader communities.
Presenters
M. Mahruf C. ShohelGroup Head of Research, Innovation and Scholarship Engagement, Quality/Learning Excellence/Higher Education, The Bedford College Group, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2024 Special Focus—The Future We Want: Socio-Environmental Challenges in Times of Climate Emergency
KEYWORDS
Climate Change, Social Justice, Sustainability, Curriculum Investigation, Module Design
