Advancing Education for Global Impact

Advancing Education for Global Impact

Last fall, nearly 2,100 students took part in the 2024 Student Sustainability Survey, conducted by the Sustainability Office. The students provided valuable feedback on their interest in sustainability topics, preferred teaching methods, and views on the college’s sustainability efforts. Students were particularly interested in the links between sustainability and human health, as well as the environmental impact of human activity.

They also expressed a desire for hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships, work placements, and campus/community projects, which were indicated as highly preferred teaching methods. Additionally, students wanted sustainability practices integrated into campus operations as part of their educational experience.

The survey results offer important insights into how Mohawk College can strengthen sustainability education. From the results, students on the Responsible Futures Planning Team developed actionable recommendations to improve sustainability efforts. These recommendations will guide future initiatives to ensure that sustainability education meets students’ needs and aligns with the broader goals of the college’s sustainability efforts.

The survey builds on the 2021 Sustainability Survey and supports Mohawk College’s Climate Action Plan, School of Climate Action and Academic Plan. It provides a foundation for continued growth in sustainability education at Mohawk College and will be used to track progress in future surveys.

Some highlights of the results:

1. Demand for sustainability education: There is strong interest from students across all academic disciplines to see sustainability reflected in their educational experience.
2. School choice: Students seek institutions that reflect sustainability values and emphasize real-world applications.
3. Hands-on learning: Students strongly prefer to learn about sustainability topics though practical experience like internships, work placements, and campus/community projects.
4. Campus sustainability practices: Students desire integration of sustainability into campus and academic operations.
5. Sustainability engagement: Over three-quarters of surveyed students have engaged in sustainability-related opportunities at Mohawk College, with positive impacts on awareness and actions.
6. Career choice: Students want to make a positive impact on the environment and society in their future careers.

Read the full report: Advancing Education for Global Impact, 2024 Mohawk College Student Sustainability Survey Results (link PDF)

For questions or comments regarding the report or survey, please contact sustainability@mohawkcollege.ca. Program-specific results may also be available upon request.