Sustainable Development in the University Context

Week 6: Sustainable Development in the University Context

Sustainable development in a university context refers to the practice of implementing policies, procedures, and activities that promote economic prosperity, social equity, and environmental sustainability on campus, in the surrounding community, and beyond.

Learning for sustainability means that you are:

- learning to know

- learning to do

- learning to be

- learning to become

- learning to live together

Learning shiftments:

Learning shiftment refers to the process of redefining and reorganizing institutional beliefs, and practices. It is centered around the idea that traditional education practices are often not tailored to the diverse needs of students and that it is time to rethink how education is delivered and how students learn. It involves aspects such as:

⇒ learner-centered approach

⇒ learning through discovery

⇒ high level cognitive thinking

⇒ collaborative learning

⇒ practice-oriented learning, linking theory and experience

Additionally, to sustain learning in the university context, there is always the need for research in various fields. To conduct research, there are a set of requirements that need to be fulfilled. Among the requirements to be considered for conducting a research are:

⇒ Appropriateness: The research must not be contrary to the moral values and ethics

⇒ Affordability: The research can be offered and attained by all levels of society

⇒ Accessibility: The research needs to be inclusive and meet the needs of the public

⇒ Availability: The research has to be always at the disposal of whoever wants it

Noteworthy is the fact that learning shiftment emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning where individuals continue to engage in learning throughout their lives, rather than just as part of formal education. Even in Islam, Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge continuously for professional development and personal growth.

Overall, learning shiftment is a proactive approach to education that recognizes the need for change and creates a more supportive, inclusive, and equitable learning environment for all students.