Developing A Conceptual Framework for Sustainable Development Education Through Digital Tools: Qualitative Insights from Southwest China

Abstract

This research delves into the intricate utilization of digital technology in higher education, aiming to construct a nuanced conceptual framework to interpret the digitalization of teaching sustainable development. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured in-depth interviews with 25 higher education teachers representing diverse experiences, backgrounds, and expertise from southwest China. The study also incorporated word frequency analysis and sentiment analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of the emphasized themes and emotional tones in the discussions. NVivo 12.0 software facilitated meticulous coding and analytical abstraction, allowing the identification of core concepts and relationships among them. The results unveiled prominent themes such as Institutional Support and Policy Integration, Faculty Competence and Training, and Integration of Sustainable Development in Curricula. The sentiment analysis depicted a predominantly positive outlook on the integration of sustainability and digital tools in education, highlighting the perceived advancements and benefits in the field. The word frequency analysis further reinforced the focus on education, sustainability, and digital tools within the research discourse. The study contributes significantly to the academic discourse on digital sustainability education, providing intricate insights and a conceptual framework that can guide future research and practice in the field. It paves the way for refined educational methodologies, curriculum designs, and institutional policies, emphasizing the critical role of digital technology in education for sustainable development.