Scaffolding Applied Learning and Sustainable Development Goals in the Furman University Sustainability Science Program

Abstract

The Furman University (Greenville, SC) Sustainability Science Bachelor of Science degree curriculum requires two introductory courses (Environmental Science, Sustainability Science), three intermediate courses (Human Systems, Social Systems, Dynamic Systems Modeling), five electives, and a research thesis or applied practicum. This article addresses the scaffolded application of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in an introductory course, an elective, and in the practicum as taught by one professor. Each course includes an applied project that increases in depth and intensity from the introductory course to the practicum course in terms of time required, relationships with stakeholders, and consequences. The hope is that students will increase their capacity over time to engage with the UN SDGs and work on applied projects by the time they graduate. The department endeavors to more mindfully incorporate the scaffolded approach throughout the sustainability science curriculum.