January LUNSHE: Exploring Creativity, Open Education, and Sustainability
On 21st January, the LUNSHE (Leeds University Network for Sustainability in Higher Education) community had the pleasure of hosting Professor Chrissi Nerantzi, institutional lead for discovery modules, and champion of creativity and open education. The session, held both in person and online, brought together a diverse group of educators and students to explore the intersection of creativity, open education, and sustainability.
The Importance of Open Education
Professor Nerantzi emphasised the critical role of open education in fostering creativity and sustainability. She highlighted how open education resources (OER) and practices can break down barriers, promote inclusivity, and support lifelong learning. By sharing resources and collaborating across borders, educators can create a more equitable and sustainable educational landscape.
Interactive Discussions and Reflections
The session featured interactive elements, including a reflective exercise where participants positioned themselves on dimensions labelled sustainability, collaboration, creativity, and openness. This activity sparked insightful discussions about the challenges and opportunities in integrating these elements into educational practices.
Challenges and Opportunities
Participants shared their experiences and concerns, such as the balance between openness and intellectual property, the need for critical thinking, and the importance of collaboration. The conversation also touched on the economic aspects of open education and the hidden privileges that can affect who has the time and resources to engage in these practices.
Case Studies and Practical Applications
Professor Nerantzi presented several case studies and examples of successful open education initiatives, including the development of open textbooks and collaborative projects with international partners. These examples illustrated the tangible benefits of open education, such as cost savings, increased accessibility, and enhanced student engagement.
Final Thoughts
The session concluded with a call to action for educators to embrace open education and sustainability in their teaching practices. Participants were encouraged to think about what they could stop doing to make room for more impactful activities and to consider how they could contribute to the open education movement.
The LUNSHE session with Chrissi was a thought-provoking and inspiring event that highlighted the transformative potential of open education. By fostering creativity, collaboration, and sustainability, educators can create a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment for all.
Join our network and attend the next thought-provoking session through this sign up form.
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
We use the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework to guide our activity. Our work on Sustainable Curriculum is linked to all of the SDGs, including:
- Goal 4: Quality Education
- Goal 13: Climate Action
Find out more about our impact on the SDGs.
