The framing of course design tools for an online pre-service teacher training course to activate ESD in subject teaching

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17159/h1rp0824

Keywords:

online learning, curriculum strengthening, course design, indigenous knowledge systems, Education for Sustainable Development

Abstract

Abstract

For the Fundisa for Change initiative that responds to the Department of Basic Education (DBE) curriculum strengthening imperatives, we realised that we needed a curriculum-aligned and course-supported series of subject-based teacher professional development programmes. This paper reports on the design of an online course of co-engaged lesson design research work with teachers that integrates Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), Indigenous Knowledge (IKS) and Sustainable Livelihoods as cross-cutting concerns. The course design was framed as a knowledge-mediated teacher professional development process to strengthen the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) with curriculum-activated ESD. A Vygotskian action learning schema was used to inform the course, and an associated lesson design research process was designed to mediate and assess ESD lesson planning with teachers. Drawing on these conceptual tools, a 'theory of change' evaluation framework was developed to research and report the course against the Department of Basic Education curriculum strengthening policy and programme.

Author Biographies

  • Rob O’Donoghue, Rhodes University

    Professor Rob O’Donoghue is an Emeritus Professor at Rhodes University’s Environmental 
    Learning Research Centre, where he has made significant contributions to Environmental Education and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). With a PhD in Environmental 
    Education from Rhodes University, South Africa, his work has focused on integrating Indigenous 
    Knowledge Systems and heritage knowledge into education. Prof. O’Donoghue is renowned 
    for his research on critical realism, sustainability education, and innovative learning platforms. 
    Throughout his career, he has led key projects such as Fundisa for Change, developing teacher 
    education resources like HandPrint CARE to promote sustainability in schools. His work has 
    been recognized with several awards, including the WESSA Lifetime Conservation Achiever 
    Award. Prof. O’Donoghue has published extensively on ESD, including recent contributions to 
    international conferences and journals. His legacy continues to shape transformative education 
    and sustainability practices in South Africa and beyond.

  • Heila Lotz-Sisitka , Rhodes University

    Professor Heila Lotz-Sisitka is a distinguished academic at Rhodes University South Africa, where 
    she holds the Murray & Roberts Chair of Environmental Education and Sustainability in the 
    Education Department. With an extensive career in Education for Sustainable Development 
    (ESD), she has been a pioneering force in advancing transformative learning and sustainability 
    education in South Africa and globally. Prof. Lotz-Sisitka’s work focuses on social learning, 
    curriculum innovation, and systems thinking, contributing significantly to policy development 
    and educational reforms that emphasize sustainability. She has led numerous national and 
    international research projects, including the Fundisa for Change programmes, and has 
    published widely on sustainability, social-ecological resilience, and the role of education in 
    transformative societal change. Prof. Lotz-Sisitka is recognized for her interdisciplinary 
    approach, integrating critical theory and environmental education to foster collaborative 
    learning environments. Her contributions to the field have earned her numerous accolades, 
    making her a key figure in shaping sustainable education practices globally.

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Published

08-11-2024

Issue

Vol. 19 No. 2 (2024): The Independent Journal of Teaching and Learning (IJTL)

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Articles

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How to Cite

The framing of course design tools for an online pre-service teacher training course to activate ESD in subject teaching. (2024). The Independent Journal of Teaching and Learning, 19(2), 65-78. https://doi.org/10.17159/h1rp0824

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