95011 TD: Sustainability in an interconnected world +
Warning: The information on this page is indicative. The subject outline for a
particular session, location and mode of offering is the authoritative source
of all information about the subject for that offering. Required texts, recommended texts and references in particular are likely to change. Students will be provided with a subject outline once they enrol in the subject.
Subject handbook information prior to 2025 is available in the Archives.
Credit points: 8 cp
Result type: Grade and marks
Requisite(s): 36 credit points of completed study in any Bachelor's Degree OR 36 credit points of completed study in any Bachelor's Combined Degree OR 36 credit points of completed study in any Bachelor's Combined Honours
These requisites may not apply to students in certain courses.
There are course requisites for this subject. See access conditions.
Anti-requisite(s): 95003 TD: Sustainability in an interconnected world
Description
This subject introduces students to ways of thinking differently about the ‘wicked’ problems we face when tackling big issues around sustainability. Students draw on a range of approaches from across our disciplines and professional domains to explore the complex social and environmental context in which every problem is situated and networked with other problems. Striving towards regenerative sustainable futures, these novel ways of thinking enable students to move away from conventional problem-solving approaches to discover new avenues for action. By working in multidisciplinary teams on complex industry or community challenges, students develop their relational and analytic skills. Students devise their own questions based on insights they’ve uncovered, and communicate their proposals for addressing current or emerging global challenges to a range of diverse audiences.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
| 1. | Draw from different perspectives to investigate the assumptions inherent in framing complex problem situations |
|---|---|
| 2. | Examine and evaluate methods and practices for engaging with complex challenges from across a range of disciplines and professional domains |
| 3. | Articulate questions and proposals for thinking differently about global challenges, and identify new avenues for action |
| 4. | Communicate new understandings of complex problem situations persuasively to diverse audiences |
Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)
This subject contributes specifically to the development of the following course intended learning outcomes:
- Identify and evaluate complex challenges by analysing system dynamics, constraints, and potential leverage points, using disciplinary perspectives, evidence, and diverse viewpoints. (CII.1.1)
- Practice mutual, responsible value creation, including the implementation of sustainable and entrepreneurial innovation. (CII.3.1)
- Communicate transdisciplinary ideas and solutions succinctly and persuasively using appropriate modalities. (CII.3.2)
- Develop reflexive connection with an evolving self, demonstrating ethical and intellectual positions that reflect well-considered values that enable greater purpose and inclusivity. (CII.4.1)
Contribution to the development of graduate attributes
The subject provides opportunities for you to examine your disciplinary perspective and assumptions by working with peers from across of a range of different disciplines. You examine a range of methods, techniques and approaches to devise a unique transdisciplinary approach for responding to complex social and environmental challenges. You explore different ways of understanding and framing problems to create new opportunities.
Your experiences as a student in this subject will support you in developing the following Creative Intelligence graduate attributes (GA):
- GA 2 - Creating value in problem-solving and inquiry
- GA 3 - Inter- and trans-disciplinary practices
- GA 4 - Imaginative and ethical citizenship
Teaching and learning strategies
This subject is offered in a blended mode. Students engage with online modules at their own pace to gain an understanding of relevant concepts and frameworks. This learning is then applied to real-world challenges in collaborative, immersive and experiential tutorials (either face-to-face or online). As students experiment with approaches for investigating complex problem situations, they have ongoing opportunities for formative feedback from peers and academic staff.
Content (topics)
- Regenerative principles
- Alternative economies
- Indigenous worldviews
- Place-based perspectives
- Future-making practices
- Systems thinking
- Storytelling/narratives
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Idea generation: Domains of action
| Objective(s): | This task addresses the following subject learning objectives: 1, 2, 3 and 4 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): CII.1.1, CII.3.1, CII.3.2 and CII.4.1 |
|---|---|
| Type: | Report |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 30% |
| Length: | max 1500 words + visuals + references |
Assessment task 2: Interview synthesis: Regenerative futures
| Objective(s): | This task addresses the following subject learning objectives: 1, 2, 3 and 4 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): CII.1.1, CII.3.1 and CII.3.2 |
|---|---|
| Type: | Report |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 40% |
| Length: | 5 pages, including visuals |
Assessment task 3: Group report & video pitch: Regenerating Australia
| Objective(s): | This task addresses the following subject learning objectives: 1, 3 and 4 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): CII.1.1, CII.3.1, CII.3.2 and CII.4.1 |
|---|---|
| Type: | Presentation |
| Groupwork: | Group, group and individually assessed |
| Weight: | 30% |
| Length: | Report: max 2000 words + visuals + references Video pitch: 3 minutes |
Minimum requirements
Students must attempt each assessment task and achieve an overall pass mark in order to pass this subject.
All students are expected to attend at least 5 out of 6 fortnightly seminars. Students must have a valid reason if they miss more than one seminar and have their absence approved by teaching staff.
Required texts
Recommended readings and materials will be provided through Canvas.