Why do so many messages about sustainability seem to fall on deaf ears? And why do the graduates of our sustainability programs get resistance to initiatives with clear benefits (that they were often hired to enact)? For purposes of curriculum development, what else do our students need to know to succeed?

Educators can agree that a useful approach in ESD would include recognizing and avoiding pitfalls and promoting success. So this session will examine which messages are most likely to succeed in motivating people to act and sustaining their behavior.

Through an exploration of both moral development science and the real-world experience of experts, Vermillion discusses these questions to help faculty gear their courses and curricula towards useful learning outcomes for their students – the future leaders in business, government and NGO sectors. In light of new awareness, faculty will be better empowered to guide their students, their peers, and the community groups they mentor towards messages that improve public literacy about the issues and commitment to positive action.

Click here for the video recording of “Better Messages” with Vermillion Institute (January 10, 2016).