Fifteenth International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic & Social Sustainability

Abstract

It is well recognized that sustainability education is enhanced when students studying a variety of disciplines are working together in team projects. The addition of different cultures introduces new dimensions to the educational process. This paper looks at the first two years of an Erasmus + funded project that develops a range of learning environments for students studying a variety of disciplines in Universities in Scotland, Finland and the Netherlands. It highlights how environmental management, civil engineering, business and marketing students work together on a renewable energy themed project that not only instills the fundamentals of the individual disciplines, but emphasises the importance of interdisciplinary work. Central to the projects are the development of a ten day intensive study trip (ISP) that provide numerous opportunities for students to be pushed beyond their comfort zone. This has included planning, designing and building a mini windfarm as well as designing and building solar power charging schemes. Students undertake self reflective tests pre and post ISP and the results of these highlight the significant sometimes “transformational experiences” that many students claim to have. Many students report the development and enhancement of attributes and skills that will increase their employability opportunities.