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Systematic exploration of sustainability in higher education: a tertiary perspective

Masoud Aghajani (School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia)
Ashkan Memari (School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University, Brisbane, Australia)
Roksana Jahan Tumpa (School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University, Sydney, Australia)
Gesa Ruge (School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University, Sydney, Australia and School of Accounting, Economics and Finance, Curtin University, Perth, Australia) (School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University, Sydney, Australia and School of Accounting, Economics and Finance, Curtin University, Perth, Australia)

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education

ISSN: 1467-6370

Article publication date: 23 September 2024

78

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to systematically examine 69 secondary studies to understand trends and implications in sustainability in higher education (SHE), addressing gaps in secondary studies, which often lack comprehensive thematic overviews that hinder future directions.

Design/methodology/approach

This tertiary study uses meticulous thematic coding to unveil overarching themes and future research directions across seven SHE areas: institutional frameworks, campus operations, education, research, outreach and collaborations, campus experiences and assessment and reporting.

Findings

The analysis reveals challenges higher education institutions (HEIs) face in integrating sustainability, highlighting the need for a holistic approach. Barriers such as awareness deficits and resistance to change emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary research. Emphasizing holistic integration and innovation is vital for seamlessly embedding sustainability within HEIs.

Practical implications

Key future research themes include holistic approaches to sustainability integration, leadership for sustainable change and innovative pedagogical approaches. Additionally, it is important to explore transdisciplinary approaches in sustainability research and the role of research centers and funding in addressing sustainability challenges.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive overview of SHE, offering insights for researchers and practitioners, and serves as a resource for advancing sustainable educational practices.

Keywords

Citation

Aghajani, M., Memari, A., Tumpa, R.J. and Ruge, G. (2024), "Systematic exploration of sustainability in higher education: a tertiary perspective", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-02-2024-0095

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited

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