Sustainability humanistic education: a new pedagogy for a better world

Abstract

Sustainability is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity, yet current educational system perpetuates rather than alleviates the threats. The history of the emerging area of sustainability education is reviewed, including brief discussion on educational discourses, namely: humane education, environmental education, ecopedagogy, education for sustainable development, education for a culture of peace and sustainability, participatory education and humanistic education. Drawing on their strengths and using examples related to climate change, sustainability humanistic education is described as an educational paradigm shift that releases individual potential to participate in a sustainability revolution. Three case studies showcase practical outcomes of this educational approach which empowers students to challenge the status quo, reject dominant practices and rather than assume existing positions in society, take the lead in creating a better world.