ERIC Number: EJ1457609
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025
Pages: 25
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1467-6370
EISSN: EISSN-1758-6739
Vertically Integrated Project: Uniting Teaching, Research, and Community in Favor of Sustainability
Cristiano Morini; Edmundo Inacio Junior; Anibal Tavares de Azevedo; Francisco Elíseo Fernandes Sanches; Eduardo Avancci Dionisio
International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, v26 n3 p672-696 2025
Purpose: Higher education institutions (HEIs) are crucial in sustainable development. To this end, they must infuse sustainability into all their endeavors. This study aims to delve into the unique vertically integrated project (VIP), a project-based learning approach and its impact on students' skills and the surrounding community. Design/methodology/approach: The research design was collaborative, reflecting the spirit of the VIP. Step 1 involved an action research approach, where students and instructors worked closely with municipal representatives to identify challenges and devise solutions for local economic development. In Step 2, students' voices were heard through a survey. Step 3 encompassed presentations in scientific and nonscientific events, capturing the community's perception as a valuable feedback loop. Findings: The authors identified the most effective policies implemented by municipalities that excelled in indices related to the business environment. VIP enhanced students' soft skills, including critical thinking, teamwork and community spirit. The outcomes of the VIP were effective in identifying public policies aimed at social transformation. Practical implications: This study's findings offer significant insights for HEI managers, guiding them in adopting interdisciplinary pedagogical practices. These practices, in turn, foster sustainable development within both internal and external communities. Furthermore, the empirical study's focus on improving local community governance can potentially enhance the local business environment. Originality/value: Literature emphasizing the social dimension of sustainability in HEIs is scarce, particularly those practices related to teaching, research and extension linked to projects aimed at community sustainability. This study introduces interdisciplinary practices encouraging student involvement in addressing tangible issues and searching for solutions to community problems.
Descriptors: Sustainability, Colleges, Active Learning, Student Projects, Community Education, Student Development, Soft Skills, Economic Development, Local Issues, Sustainable Development, Student Attitudes, Business Education, Undergraduate Students, Graduate Students, Foreign Countries
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Brazil
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A