Syllabus

Introduction to Sustainable Development

Code
NV1027
Points
7.5 Credits
Level
First Cycle Level 1
School
School of Teacher Education
Subject field
Natural Science (NAV)
Group of Subjects
Other Subjects within Natural Science
Disciplinary Domain
Natural Science, 100%
This course can be included in the following main field(s) of study
No main field of study1
Progression indicator within (each) main field of study
1G1N
Approved
Approved, 15 March 2013.
This syllabus is valid from 01 July 2013.
Revised
Revised, 12 February 2014.
Revision is valid from 12 February 2014.
Download as pdf To course page

Learning Outcomes

The primary goal of the course is that participants will develop knowledge about and skills relating to work with sustainable development.

On completion of this course participants should be able to:

  • problematize and concretize the concept of sustainable development from various theoretical perspectives,
  • describe the impact of humankind on nature, society, and cultural landscapes, both throughout history and in modern times,
  • reflect over, as well as, critically review and assess various problem images, actions, and images of the future within the environmental field,
  • relate sustainable development to various questions of values and diversity,
  • reflect over sustainable development from a comparative international perspective,
  • show basic knowledge of how sustainable development education can contribute to children’s and young people’s understanding of sustainable development.

Course Content

The course adresses sustainable development from ecological, economic and social perspectives focusing especially on ecological and ethical questions. Elementary ecology and humankind’s relationship to nature are studied. Several thematic examples are presented including flow of matter and energy, circular flow, ecosystem services, biodiversity, climate change, water supply, and different energy systems. The course also presents an overview of human development focusing on factors determinant for the uneven rate of development in the different continents. Social sustainability, diversity, and basic values are discussed. Attention is focused on the role of schools in questions relating to sustainable development. Sustainable development is highlighted from various perspectives through the study of problem images and societal investigations.

Assessment

The course is assessed continuously through active participation at seminars, laborations, excursions and field studies.

Forms of Study

Forms of study are lectures, as well as compulsory seminars, laborations, excursions, and field studies.

Grades

The Swedish grades A–F.

Prerequisites

  • General entry requirements and English 6. No knowledge of Swedish is required

Other Information

The course is given in english.