Climate Physics meets Education for Sustainable Development
How to address wicked problems through blended learning
Identifiers (Article)
Abstract
Many of the current societal challenges, such as the climate crisis, are so-called wicked problems, i.e., they are characterised by a high degree of complexity and a multitude of conflicting goals. Innovative learning settings are needed to address these issues in a research and skills-oriented way. The module Climate Physics meets ESD was designed for future teachers of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) subjects. It consists of online and face-to-face elements that closely interweave the acquisition of competences in the field of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) with learning activities on climate physics. The start-up phase of the new course was funded by the Stifterverband and the Ministry of Science, Research and the Arts of the State of Baden-Württemberg as part of the programme “Fellowships for Teaching Innovations and Support Services in Digital University Teaching”. The project is hosted by the Heidelberg School of Education (HSE), a joint institution of Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University of Education, in collaboration with the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy of Heidelberg University.
The article provides an insight into the design and testing phase, as well as the theory- and reflection-based revision. The initial three-part structure of the module was further developed into a blended learning approach with more frequent alternation between online and classroom learning. The potential of digital and research-oriented settings in university teaching is demonstrated in the light of the social transformation processes of our time.
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