Zukunftswerk
The learning module Zukunftswerk explores themes and spheres of human action and existence in relation to sustainability issues, whilst allowing each discipline to set its own specific priorities.
Zukunftswerk aims to develop and strengthen sustainability competencies without requiring any prior knowledge of sustainability issues. Nor are participants expected to share a common disciplinary or socio-cultural background – rather, differing levels of knowledge and perspectives offer the potential for particularly rich learning experiences. At its heart lies a multi-stage process of developing shared visions on a topic relevant to the respective discipline.
The learning module is designed for two to three 90-minute sessions and can be integrated into courses of various formats and degree programmes (max. 25 students). Within a course, Zukunftswerk can function both as a separate module and as a unit to which further sessions relate, either as preparation or follow-up. The time commitment for lecturers is limited to adapting the content to their course, delivering the face-to-face sessions and marking any assessment tasks.
Methodologically, Zukunftswerk combines learning activities from the 'experience-based learning framework' (Caniglia et al., 2016) with approaches from critical mapping (Orangotango, 2012). It comprises four learning activities:
- Vision Creation
- Mental Mapping
- Exploratory Walk
- Critical Design
Each of the four activities consists of an introduction, the activity itself, and a subsequent joint reflection. Reflection is a central element throughout; on the method, on what has been learnt and on the visions developed, but also in the sense of self-reflection.
By the end of the learning module, students will reflect on their own perceptions, values and actions and strive to understand those of others; experience learning as a collaborative endeavour and put this into practice; and jointly formulate and shape sustainable goals/futures and pathways of transformation towards sustainable development.