Exploring Transdisciplinary Interaction in Higher Education: Urbanism through Informal Learning Environment

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Exploring Transdisciplinary Interaction in Higher Education: Urbanism through Informal Learning Environment
Language: English
Authors: Berk Kesim, Elif Bengü
Source: International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education. 2025 26(3):633-650.
Availability: Emerald Publishing Limited. Howard House, Wagon Lane, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 1WA, UK. Tel: +44-1274-777700; Fax: +44-1274-785201; e-mail: emerald@emeraldinsight.com; Web site: http://www.emerald.com/insight
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 18
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Informal Education, Environmental Education, Urban Areas, Interdisciplinary Approach, Sustainable Development, Critical Thinking, Recordkeeping, Geographic Location, Creative Thinking, Teaching Methods, Objectives, International Organizations, Course Descriptions, Undergraduate Students, Foreign Countries
Geographic Terms: Turkey
DOI: 10.1108/IJSHE-10-2023-0504
ISSN: 1467-6370
1758-6739
Abstract: Purpose: This study aims to explore interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary interactions around sustainability, focusing on the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs). By using the city as an informal learning space, it presents a case study to raise SDG awareness, promote interdisciplinarity, foster critical thinking and empower students. Design/methodology/approach: Using qualitative content analysis, this study explores students' interdisciplinary engagements. The research centers on student-created Logbooks, combining field data for analysis via open coding. Findings: The informal setting facilitates transdisciplinary interaction and enriches interdisciplinary skills while retaining individuals' disciplinary tendencies. Research limitations/implications: Factors like local geographical conditions and participant numbers could lead to minor variations in future course applications. Although initial problem topics and discussions are confined to local urban geography, they might diversify during implementation. Practical implications: The Logbook serves as a guide for local urban issues and embodies interdisciplinary outcomes. It can be enhanced with maps and problem zoning. Social implications: Demonstrates effective SDG integration into higher education. Originality/value: This study spotlights interdisciplinary learning within an unconventional context -- urbanism -- bridging student gaps. Supported by a paradigm shift from sustainability to unsustainability, it underscores the significance of critical engagement with SDGs.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1457665
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Purpose: This study aims to explore interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary interactions around sustainability, focusing on the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs). By using the city as an informal learning space, it presents a case study to raise SDG awareness, promote interdisciplinarity, foster critical thinking and empower students. Design/methodology/approach: Using qualitative content analysis, this study explores students' interdisciplinary engagements. The research centers on student-created Logbooks, combining field data for analysis via open coding. Findings: The informal setting facilitates transdisciplinary interaction and enriches interdisciplinary skills while retaining individuals' disciplinary tendencies. Research limitations/implications: Factors like local geographical conditions and participant numbers could lead to minor variations in future course applications. Although initial problem topics and discussions are confined to local urban geography, they might diversify during implementation. Practical implications: The Logbook serves as a guide for local urban issues and embodies interdisciplinary outcomes. It can be enhanced with maps and problem zoning. Social implications: Demonstrates effective SDG integration into higher education. Originality/value: This study spotlights interdisciplinary learning within an unconventional context -- urbanism -- bridging student gaps. Supported by a paradigm shift from sustainability to unsustainability, it underscores the significance of critical engagement with SDGs.
ISSN:1467-6370
1758-6739
DOI:10.1108/IJSHE-10-2023-0504