Using an individual volunteer project to provide an innovative learning and assessment experience in the field of sustainability

Abstract

Abstract Sustainability is a relatively young field which in the past decade, has seen increased media coverage, employment opportunities and student interest. ‘Principles of Environmental Sustainability’ is a Masters Level module whose innovative curriculum delivery features a complement of active learning methods and constructively aligned assessments. These are designed to engage students through practice to apply theories that address challenges of a societal shift to sustainability. This paper outlines how an individual volunteer project provides a learning environment that encourages both the social and academic integration of a diverse student group. Details of the assessment strategy and methods for providing formative feedback through self and peer evaluation are explained.