Collaborative Innovations for Sustainable Futures – CI4SusFut

We propose to recruit 10 students each from UCD and SETU Schools of Education to participate in the creation of a new 2.5 credit module on teaching sustainability in a collaborative and innovative way. The proposed Teaching and Learning (T&L) project is a transformative cross-university, cross-college and community initiative that unites the strengths of two universities— SETU and UCD— to create an innovative challenge-based blended learning module for sustainable education. Aligned with the theme of the call, the project addresses the overarching aim of fostering sustainability and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The module focuses on cultivating design thinking and innovation skills among students from diverse programs, spanning Intro to Sustainability at Professional Master of Education programme at UCD, and postgraduates at SETU, encompassing both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Through collaborative, cross-university teams, students will engage in real-time problem-solving for societal challenges, emphasising critical thinking and interdependent decision-making. The learning environment is designed to be autonomous and explorative, empowering students to develop essential employability skills. The module guides students through the steps of delivering a social innovation project, fostering creativity, change management, commercial awareness, and collaboration skills. Importantly, the project extends its impact beyond university education. PME students will integrate SDGs into their teaching practices, bringing awareness to school placements and outreach initiatives. New Teacher Support Service Oide and the Teaching Council will collaborate to align the module with the COSÁN framework, providing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities for teachers nationally. Through collaboration with education authorities, the project aims to contribute to a sustainable future by empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to effect positive change. The initiative recognises the broader societal impact, promoting the integration of sustainable development principles in education and ensuring that teachers across subject specifications align their teaching with relevant SDGs. This comprehensive approach envisions a transformative impact on students, teachers, and communities, fostering a collective commitment to building a sustainable future.