Sustainability issues cannot be easily addressed within a single discipline. Sustainability research requires diverse expertise and knowledge. This course explores integrative research and project planning to address sustainability issues. Key aspects of integrative research considered in this course include conducting research in the context of complexity, research that crosses disciplinary and academic/non-academic divides, community participation in integrative research, integrative research design and the goals and politics of research. The course is interactive and involves a high level of student participation.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Identify and critically evaluate integrative research methods from the academic literature on sustainability
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the methodological challenges posed by integrative research in the context of sustainability
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the practical challenges posed by integrative research in the context of sustainability
4. Participate effectively in integrative research projects.

Assessment will be based on:

• Case study of an integrative research method, with 1500-word report and 15 minute class presentation  (20%; LO 1, 2)
• Participation in a group project that develops and applies an integrative research methodology (40%; LO 1, 2, 3, 4)
• Leading a class tutorial that aims to build class identified integrative skills (10%; LO 3, 4)
• 2 hour exam to demonstrate critical assessment of an integrative research project report (30% LO 1, 2)

2 hr lectures and 2 hrs tutorials, 65 contact hours over the semester

72 units towards a degree, including at least one of SRES1003 or ENVS1003, STAT1003, SRES2014 or ENVS2014, or SOCY2043

ENVS1003, ENVS2014

van Kerkhoff, L. (2005). Integrated research: concepts of connection in environmental science and policy, Environmental Science & Policy, 8(5), 439-463.