Field studies in sustainable development

This field studies unit explores the concept of sustainable development in Asia and draws attention to the practical constraints and issues associated with translating the Sustainable Development Goals into regional policy and practice. Working across multiple development sectors and with a range of local partners, the unit provides you with the opportunity to apply inter-disciplinary and cross-cultural problem solving skills outside the classroom, while contributing to a local organisation, as detailed in point 3 below.

The unit is divided into four phases. You will:

(1) Attend pre-departure preparatory workshops in Melbourne. Topics covered include understanding the Sustainable Development Goals and their implementation, an overview of sustainable development issues in the host country, and an overview of cross-cultural norms, safety and logistical information.

(2) Participate in a week long journey across a specific region/area in the host country where you will meet with a variety of groups to discuss sustainable development challenges. Themes include: post-conflict transitions, livelihood development, sustainable resource management, gender empowerment, disaster management, migration; climate change, ecotourism; urbanisation, disabilities, and sustainability education.

(3) In the host-country, work in a small team to provide a service to a partner organisation addressing a specific organizational need over a two-week period. Examples of a service includes conducting a needs assessment, designing and writing monitoring and evaluation reports, event coordination, stakeholder research, conducting a gender analysis, designing training programs, writing project and grant proposals, or developing a communication and media strategy.

(4) Attend a briefing workshop prior to leaving the country to share and reflect on your work.