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Sustainability Pedagogies - Words of Wisdom

Helping students to reflect on their beliefs and understanding using a Venn diagram interactive

T213, is a Level 2, 30 credit Environment and Development course. In the first week of the module students are asked to use a Venn diagram interactive to mark where their current thinking is in relation to growthist, peakiest, environmentalist perspectives of energy systems. The interactive also allows them to see where other (anonymised) students on the module have placed themselves. To conclude the activity students are directed towards the discussion forum to share their views with the other students. A forum moderator encourages discussion between the students and provides further input as/when required. 

At the end of the course students revisit the interactive Venn diagram. Their previous answer from the start of the course is re-shared and students are invited to reflect on their decision and consider whether their perspective has changed and why.

Author: The Open University's Responsible Futures Audit 2024

Student quote
"The reason this stood out are terms like 'interactive', 'themselves' and 'encourages'. In addition, modern trends seem to indicate that the best way to stimulate students is through effective communications and diagrams are often more effective at achieving this than reading textbooks or 10 pages. Finally, the message of reflection should continue to be encouraged by The OU."