This session highlights findings from two studies that examine how Action-Oriented Pedagogies (AOPs) can transform sustainability education in K-12 classrooms, equipping educators with strategies to engage students in consequential action. The first study analyzes 117 preservice teachers’ (PSTs) unit plans, exploring how AOP principles are used to design real-world sustainability projects. It explores six potential roles for students in AOP — Advocate, Scientist, Innovator, Builder, Artist, and Solutions Steward — that frame student engagement in impactful and collaborative learning. The second study systematically reviews global literature to explore how K-12 educators facilitate sustainability and climate education, focusing on how students are invited to take agentive actions in their communities and beyond. Together, these studies provide insights into fostering student agency and reimagining sustainability education as a catalyst for change.
By the end of this session, participants gain practical insights into the implementation of AOP by exploring strategies for integrating student-driven sustainability roles into their teaching, as well as examples of civic engagement activities, such as policy advocacy and community-centered projects; and the transition from classroom-based learning to transformative educational experiences through real-world action that empowers students to create meaningful change.
