Using real-world engagements for sustainability learning in ODeL in the Global South: challenges and opportunities
International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education
ISSN: 1467-6370
Article publication date: 6 August 2021
Issue publication date: 30 August 2021
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to showcase and critically review the value of selected pedagogies in which real-world engagements are used to enhance sustainability learning in an open, distance and e-learning (ODeL) context in the Global South. The paper considers opportunities, issues, alternatives and implementation guidelines.
Design/methodology/approach
The School of Ecological and Human Sustainability (University of South Africa) serves as case study, with blended and fully online learning used as examples of pedagogies. The assessment of these pedagogies uses examples of learning activities and exercises, critical reflections on feedback by lecturers and students and consideration against criteria for real-world learning.
Findings
The experiences showcased illustrate that despite challenges in ODeL, real-world engagements can be used successful as pedagogy for sustainability learning in the Global South context. Limited access to ICTs can be mitigated through mobile technologies and free and open software applications, as illustrated by the examples in this paper.
Research limitations/implications
The case study approach and qualitative methodology present limitations, with focus on only two examples. However, significant depth is achieved with the assessment of these examples, while the recommendations and lessons learnt can be applied in other contexts, thus expanding on the knowledge and experience in this field.
Originality/value
This paper showcases innovative approaches to incorporate real-world engagements for sustainability learning in ODeL. Application of real-world engagements in ODeL in the Global South context is original and addresses the need for teaching and learning strategies responding to the digital divide and contributing to expand access to higher education and an Afrocentric discourse to best practice.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors acknowledge the infrastructure and resources provided by Unisa, which made the research reported in this paper possible. The research was conducted in terms of the ethical clearance obtained from Unisa through the following approvals: 2012/CAES/027 and 2018/02/14/37586742/08/MC.
Citation
Pretorius, R.W., Carow, S., Wilson, G. and Schmitz, P. (2021), "Using real-world engagements for sustainability learning in ODeL in the Global South: challenges and opportunities", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. 22 No. 6, pp. 1316-1335. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-08-2020-0287
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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