Steps & Skills for Integrated
Problem-Solving
Video: Discussion with Arnim, Aaron, Katja, and Jordan
The shared reference framework on key competencies in sustainability provides a set of eight distinct (non-overlapping), yet functionally interrelated key competencies, which are synthesized into an integrated perspective. This integrated set facilitates successful performance, given what is known, valued, and aspired at a given moment in time, along the sustainability problem-solving process and a positive outcome that progresses sustainability, while working on a specific sustainability challenge in its context.
The framework can be used in several ways:
Provide dynamic guidance on learning objectives for sustainability programs in higher education
Describe relevant abilities for sustainability professionals in a range of contexts and positions
Outline steps in collective and iterative sustainability problem-solving processes
Framework Characteristics
Statement 1
The shared reference framework entails eight interrelated key competencies in sustainability; each key competency entails a cluster of sustainability competencies that relate to each other as they contribute similar functions to sustainability problem-solving.
Statement 3
Within the shared reference framework, values-thinking competency holds a lead role in orienting the application of the other competencies; emphasizing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion; and identifying, acknowledging, negotiating, and reconciling diverse values with sustainability values.
Statement 2
The key competencies in sustainability are interrelated within a framework that describes the functional contribution of each key competency to major steps of collective and iterative sustainability problem-solving processes and change agency.
Statement 4
The shared reference framework with its eight interrelated key competencies provides dynamic and context-sensitive guidance on the design and evaluation of program-level learning objectives for sustainability and sustainability-related programs in higher education.
