Identifying students’ sustainability preferences to improve design team performance
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Accepted version
Date
2021-06-14
Authors
Barrella, Elise
Girdner, Justyn
Anderson, Robin
Watson, Mary Katherine
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University College Cork
Published Version
Abstract
In this paper, we discuss evidence from two studies, which use a mix of individual and team tasks to uncover students’ knowledge and skills related to sustainable design. The research explores two questions: (1) Could a team with a mix of individual student sustainability profiles influence individual team members’ learning? (2) Does a diverse, balanced team enhance project performance? When we look at individual students, preferences or affinities emerge that indicate socially-, environmentally-, economically-, or technically- minded individuals. As part of a team, students influence each other’s design decisions, often by bringing new knowledge or a different perspective into a discussion. Team composition that prioritizes a mix of individual preferences could be a valuable strategy for sustainable design, and help team members appreciate the value of different sustainability aspects.
Description
Keywords
Sustainable development , Engineering education , Sustainable design , Team composition
Citation
Barrella, E., Girdner, J., Anderson, R. and Watson, M. K. (2021) ‘Identifying students’ sustainability preferences to improve design team performance’, EESD2021: Proceedings of the 10th Engineering Education for Sustainable Development Conference, 'Building Flourishing Communities', University College Cork, Ireland, 14-16 June.