From Apathy to Action: Reframing Sustainability at Danish Folk High Schools
Author
Term
4. Term
Education
Publication year
2024
Submitted on
2024-06-07
Pages
40
Abstract
Danish folk high schools have a strong tradition of embracing an experimental and explorative approach to education. As sustainability becomes an increasingly pressing concern, traditional evidence-based and progress-oriented teaching methods are being challenged. Education for Sustainability (ESD) has been presented to integrate sustainability into the educational system, but it faces criticism for prioritising behavioural changes and consensus over participatory processes that highlight dilemmas and dissensus. Through a case study conducted at Grundtvigs Højskole, this research employs a participatory design approach to explore the diverse and potentially conflicting concerns related to the implementation of sustainability at Danish folk high schools. Utilising the analytical framework of Actor-Network Theory (ANT) and Arena Theory, the research underscores the importance of engaging the involved actors in the process of change. This research article provides a participatory strategy to effectively implement sustainability at Danish folk high schools. Furthermore, this research provides critical insights and practical methodologies that can be adapted by other educational institutions, aiming to empower future generations with the skills and knowledge to navigate and address the complexities and uncertainties of the future.
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