week 2

Introduction

• Welcome to the livestream and in-person students.

• Apologies for any technical issues; first time using livestream.

• Positive feedback on student engagement and performance with iLearn materials.

• Overview of today's session: guest presenters and shortened lecture.

Student Presentation: CIS Australia

Introductions

• Presenters: Sophie and Olivia.

• Topic: Study and volunteering abroad with CIS Australia.

About CIS Australia

• Approved provider for short-term study abroad opportunities for Australian students.

• Operates in over 25 countries with full support throughout the program.

• Programs include orientations, accommodations, meals, and excursions.

Personal Experience

• Sophie and Olivia's journey to New York State for academic credit.

• Key highlights:

  • Exploring New York City and American college culture.

  • Creating augmented reality experiences in class.

  • Advice for future students: be open to opportunities, bring Aussie snacks, stay organized.

Funding Options

• OS Help loan available for eligible students.

• Up to $11,207 to cover abroad program costs.

• Self-funding also an option.

Program Offers

• Intensive study programs offered in June 2025 and January 2026.

• Choose from over 500 courses to earn academic credits.

• Incorporates excursions and on-site support.

Volunteer Opportunities

• Hands-on experience during winter and summer breaks.

• Open to all; no prerequisites required.

• Engage in meaningful projects with free time to explore.

Next Steps

• Sign-up sheets for interested students to receive more information.

• Apply to UTS Global Short Programs for approval.

• Follow CIS Australia on social media for updates and inspiration.

Expectations in Communication

• Transition from email to dialogue tool appreciated for efficiency.

• Importance of personal communication; use names and formal greetings.

• Susan is the preferred name for the instructor.

Introduction of Tutor Kathy Jones

• Kathy's background: high school geography and science teacher.

• Runs a business focused on fieldwork education.

• Excited to contribute to the unit.

Module Overview: Sustainability

Transition to Week Two

• Introduction to Module 1: Conceptualizing Sustainability.

• Goals: understand sustainability, its necessity in education, and implementation in practice.

Acknowledgment of Country

• Recognizes the culture of the Wollamatgal clan of the Dharug nation.

• Extension of respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and elders.

Lecture Content Overview

Sustainability as a Concept

• Definition: Meeting present needs without compromising future generations.

• Ongoing nature, not a finite goal.

• Importance of integrating economic, sociocultural, political, and environmental pillars in decision-making.

Education for Sustainability

• Education for sustainability defined as a tool to empower teachers and students to make informed decisions for a sustainable future.

• Skills needed: critical thinking, collaboration, and dialogue.

Real-world Examples of Sustainability Initiatives

• Clean Up Australia Day: Learning from one-off initiatives and their sustainability effects.

• World Wildlife Day & Sea Week: Engage students in environmental activities and thinking beyond events.

Engaging with Project-Based Learning

• Example of Project Penguin: Collaborative learning initiative involving primary and secondary school students to support penguin conservation.

• Encourages an integrated approach to curriculum including sustainability.

Reflection on Sustainability

Contestable Nature

• Sustainability as a contested concept based on differing personal views and ideologies.

• Importance of critical reflection on perspectives and solutions to sustainability challenges.

Practical Approaches in Teaching Sustainability

Empowering Future Educators

• Encouragement to see students as potential change agents in sustainability.

• Ideas for integrating sustainability into various subjects and teaching practices.

Weekly Reminders

• Prepare for the upcoming tutorial and next week’s lecture, focusing on indigenous knowledges.

• Suggestions for further reading regarding sustainability concepts.

Closing Thoughts

• Expresses thanks for attendance and participation in livestream.

• Ensures that all materials discussed will be available on iLearn.