Learning Task Models in the Context of Education for Sustainable Development

Abstract

Introduction. The sustainable development concept lies in the core of the UNESCO Global Program, in which education is considered as a way for developing competencies (which are) necessary to achieve specific sustainable development goals (SDGs). Education for sustainable development (ESD) is based on the implementation of the concept of life-long, high-quality and inclusive learning, which implies the creation of conditions for the learning and development of each member of society and the possibility of acquiring the competencies necessary in a knowledge society. Providing quality lifelong learning opportunities for all learners at all levels and in all learning communities is the foundation for better lives and sustainable development. The content and means of ESD implementation differ significantly across the globe due to variety in socio-economic conditions, way of life and the level of technological development of countries and regions, therefore, it is important to analyze the general features of ESD and the characteristics of the educational environment to support ESD. Purpose. To study how the ideas of sustainable development can be incorporated into the learning content and the instructional process by integrating digital didactics methods, knowledge structuring, and digital technologies. To show by applying a task-based approach, that support for performing the tasks of learning, instruction (teaching) and dialogue in an open learning environment is crucial for achieving the SDGs. Methods: Systems approach, problem theory, problem approach, generalizations. Results: It is demonstrated how lifelong learning, as a basis for the implementation of ESD, and access to knowledge in the digital age can contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. The features of the tasks of teaching, learning and interaction for achieving the SDGs in education have been investigated, the corresponding task models have been formulated. The requirements for the functionality and technologies of an open learning environment which allows learners to achieve the set of goals when solving learning problems in the framework of ESD are described. Conclusion. The results of this research show that education should be considered as both an independent goal (SDG4) and a means to achieve all the SDGs. It is not only an integral part but also a key factor for sustainable development in terms of achieving the SDGs, which requires consideration of learning tasks other than traditional ones. There is a need for a learner to develop skills for independent search and critical assessment of information, participation in planning and management of one’s own learning, as well as skills for interaction and communication with other actors in the process of solving new problems. Mastering of these meta-skills is associated with training procedures, the impact of which is increased in the course of interaction between the student and the open learning environment. At the same time, the instructional (training, teaching) task determines the creation of a personal environment for performing the learning task, which facilitates the development of learners’ key competencies in the field of sustainable development, which is necessary to achieve any of the SDGs.