Whilst environmental education, and more recently education for sustainable development are important trends, they are not sufficient to reorient and transform education as a wholeand. This Briefing critiques the prevailing managerial and mechanistic paradigm in education, and argues that an ecological view of educational theory, practice and policy is necessary to assist the sustainability transition. The Briefing then shows how a systemic change of educational culture towards the realization of human potential and the interdependence of social, economic and ecological wellbeingcan lead to transformative learning.

Unreservedly recommended

I've read no clearer or more concise description of the need for authentic education than that given here

Stephen Sterling is an independent consultant working in the academic and NGO fields in the UK and internationally. He was involved in developing the MSc in Environmental and Development Education at South Bank University, London, where he is an academic tutor. He has an extensive publications record, including Good Earth-Keeping: Education, Training and Awareness for a Sustainable Future (UNEP UK 1992), Education for Sustainability (Earthscan 1996), and Education for Sustainable Development in the Schools Sector (Sustainable Development Education Panel 1988).