Factual description
The course entitled “Environmental Education & Communication” has been selected to be examined since it’s relevant to COSY.
The requirements of the course are related to the understanding of environmental problems, which is achieved through the assignment of tasks and the implementation of exercises in the laboratory and in the field. Specialist scientists are invited and transfer to the trainees their knowledge and experiences. Students are informed and prepared for their practice in collaborations, something that is achieved through group work, communication with competent bodies, voluntary participation and contribution not only for the implementation of the work, but also for the experiential understanding of the object they are working on. Students carry out assignments related to society, economy and environmental protection. The results of their work are presented in front of their classmates, analyzed and discussed with each other and with the teacher as a guide. Such small educational projects are related to informing local communities, implementing community awareness days, open discussions on waste management, forest protection, sea pollution, illegal hunting, endemic species protection, promotion of natural and cultural wealth, implementation of sustainable development goals, etc.
This process strengthens the understanding of intercultural dimensions, religious diversity, intercultural relations, moral dimension, acceptance of disagreement, cultivating a spirit of cooperation, networking with active groups of young and notable initiatives, etc.
The course is clearly interdisciplinary. Many environmental scientists with the necessary knowledge to provide students with the appropriate knowledge and the necessary technical skills to be able to inform and raise awareness in society, issues of environmental protection and sustainable development, are involved. At the same time, suggestions and actions from agencies, NGOs, etc. add another dimension to the educational and cognitive process.
Relevance in complex systems
The concept of Sustainable Development is in itself a complex concept. It is an interdisciplinary concept, which can be contained within any science and transferred to the student. Complex education systems can also contribute to a better understanding of the complex process of sustainable development, while also contributing to its sustainability in the system.
