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Katja Biedenkopf, André Decoster, Hilde Heynen, Bart Kerremans, Miet Maertens, Axel Marx, Bart Muys, Constanza Parra, Kolja Raube, Luc Sels, Ilse Smets, Karel Van Acker, Chris Van Geet, Kurt Willems, and Jan Wouters

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, which were adopted in 2015, will determine the course of the global social, ecological and economic agenda until 2030.

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The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, which were adopted in 2015, will determine the course of the global social, ecological and economic agenda until 2030.

Information about the different SDGs is abundantly available but a comprehensive framework that brings them all together coherently is often lacking. This course provides a general and accessible academic introduction to SDGs in all its facets.

A highly interdisciplinary team of experts will offer their insight into the intricacies of the matter, while practitioners in the domain of the SDGs are closely engaged in the discussion.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understand the emergence and development of the sdgs
  • Understand how the different sdgs are interrelated
  • Understand the structure of the sdgs in the united nations context
  • Acquire an understanding of how the sdgs relate to addressing global challenges such as inequality, climate change, poverty, unsustainable consumption and production, and peace and security
  • Acquire scientifically informed and evidence-based information about the background and reality of each sdg
  • Understand the complexities of the 169 individual targets that are part of the 17 sdgs
  • Reflect on the challenges with which the sdgs are confronted
  • Recognize the mutual interdependence between social, ecological and economic objectives of the sdg agenda
  • Acquire an understanding of the institutional infrastructure in place that aims to realize sdg goals
  • Understand how the sdgs are implemented
  • Learn from practitioners what the difficulties are in achieving the sdgs

Syllabus

Module 1: The origin, development and idea of the SDGsHistory and origins of the Sustainable Development Goals. What are the SDGs? What are their aims, methodology and perspectives? How are they related to the Millennium Development Goals?
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Module 2: SDGs and Society: Ensuring resilience and primary needs in societyIn-depth discussion and analysis of goals related to poverty, hunger, health & well-being and education
Module 3: SDGs and Society: Strengthening Institutions for SustainabilityIn-depth discussion and analysis of goals related to gender equality, affordable and clean energy, sustainable cities & communities, and peace, justice & strong institutions
Module 4: SDGs and the Economy: Shaping a Sustainable EconomyIn-depth discussion and analysis of goals related to work & economic growth, industry, innovation & infrastructure, inequalities, responsible production & consumption
Module 5: SDGs and the Biosphere: Development within Planetary BoundariesIn-depth discussion and analysis of goals related to clean water, climate, life below water and life on land
Module 6: Realizing the SDGs: Implementation through Global PartnershipsIn-depth discussion and analysis of SDG 17 which aims to implement the SDGs through partnerships, finance, technology and the development of coherence between policies

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores the development and historical background of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), providing a comprehensive understanding of their origins and evolution
Examines the interrelatedness of the 17 SDGs and their targets, highlighting the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental issues
Provides a high-level overview of the SDGs within the context of the United Nations, explaining their role and significance in global governance
Analyzes the relevance of the SDGs in addressing pressing global challenges such as poverty, climate change, and inequality, demonstrating their real-world applications
Offers scientifically informed and evidence-based information on each SDG, ensuring that learners have access to credible and up-to-date knowledge
Facilitates critical thinking by exploring the complexities and challenges associated with achieving the SDGs, encouraging learners to engage with the nuances of global development

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The UN Sustainable Development Goals: an Interdisciplinary Academic Introduction with these activities:
Organize and review course materials, such as lecture notes, slide presentations, and assignments, on a regular basis.
Regularly reviewing your learning materials will help you stay on top of the course content and improve your retention.
Show steps
  • After each lecture or lesson, summarize the key points in your own words.
  • Review your notes and slides before each class to refresh your memory.
  • Create flashcards or other study aids to test your understanding.
Review the Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development
This book can provide background information on the origins and development of the SDGs, solidifying your foundation for the course.
Show steps
  • Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 of the book.
  • Summarize the key arguments and recommendations of the report.
  • Identify the connections between the SDGs and the report.
Complete practice quizzes to test your understanding of key SDG concepts and terminology.
Practicing with quizzes will reinforce your understanding of the fundamental concepts and terms used in the study of SDGs.
Browse courses on Sustainability Indicators
Show steps
  • Gather practice quizzes from various sources, such as online platforms or textbooks.
  • Take the quizzes regularly to assess your knowledge.
  • Review the correct answers and explanations to reinforce your understanding.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Follow online tutorials or webinars on specific SDG-related topics, such as气候变化adaptation or energy efficiency.
Guided tutorials and webinars will provide you with interactive learning experiences, allowing you to delve deeper into specific SDG-related areas.
Browse courses on Climate Action
Show steps
  • Identify specific SDG-related topics that you want to explore further.
  • Search for online tutorials or webinars on these topics.
  • Follow the tutorials or webinars, taking notes and engaging with the material.
Develop a plan for a community-based project that addresses one of the SDGs.
By actively engaging with the SDGs and developing a plan for a real-life project, you'll gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of their implementation.
Show steps
  • Identify a specific SDG and a local community you want to focus on.
  • Research the community's needs and challenges related to the chosen SDG.
  • Brainstorm ideas for a project that could address the identified needs.
  • Develop a project plan that includes goals, objectives, activities, and a timeline.
  • Identify potential partners and resources to support your project.
Design an infographic or presentation on the interconnections between the SDGs.
Creating visual content will help you grasp the complex interrelationships between the SDGs and their impact on various aspects of sustainable development.
Show steps
  • Gather information on the different SDGs and their targets.
  • Identify the key connections and interdependencies between the goals.
  • Choose an appropriate format for your infographic or presentation.
  • Design and develop your visual content.
  • Share your infographic or presentation with others to raise awareness.
Write a position paper outlining your perspective on a controversial SDG-related issue.
Researching and writing a position paper will enable you to critically analyze the complexities of SDG-related issues and develop informed opinions.
Show steps
  • Identify a specific SDG-related issue that you would like to address.
  • Research the issue thoroughly, considering different viewpoints and perspectives.
  • Develop a clear and concise argument outlining your position on the issue.
  • Write a well-structured position paper that supports your argument with evidence and reasoning.
  • Present your position paper to others for feedback and discussion.

Career center

Learners who complete The UN Sustainable Development Goals: an Interdisciplinary Academic Introduction will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as climate change, clean water, and sustainable cities, which are all relevant to the work of an Environmental Engineer.
Social Worker
Social Workers help people overcome social and economic challenges. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as poverty, inequality, and peace and security, which are all relevant to the work of a Social Worker.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues to help inform decision-making. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as poverty, inequality, and climate change, which are all relevant to the work of a Policy Analyst.
Social Entrepreneur
Social Entrepreneurs use business principles to solve social problems. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as poverty, inequality, and climate change, which are all relevant to the work of a Social Entrepreneur.
Urban Planner
Urban Planners design and implement plans for the development of cities and towns. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as sustainable cities, responsible consumption and production, and climate change, which are all relevant to the work of an Urban Planner.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and its components and processes. They develop an understanding of environmental problems, including pollution, climate change, and loss of biodiversity. This course can help prepare for this role by building a foundation in understanding the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as climate change, clean water, and life on land, which are all relevant to the work of an Environmental Scientist.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as poverty, inequality, and peace and security, which are all relevant to the work of a Nonprofit Manager.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants help organizations develop and implement strategies to reduce their environmental impact and promote social responsibility. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as climate change, clean energy, and sustainable cities, which are all relevant to the work of a Sustainability Consultant.
Conservation Biologist
Conservation Biologists work to protect and restore biodiversity. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as life on land, life below water, and climate change, which are all relevant to the work of a Conservation Biologist.
International Development Specialist
International Development Specialists work to improve the lives of people in developing countries. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as poverty, hunger, and education, which are all relevant to the work of an International Development Specialist.
Climate Change Analyst
Climate Change Analysts study the causes and effects of climate change. They develop and evaluate policies to mitigate and adapt to climate change. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as climate change, clean energy, and sustainable cities, which are all relevant to the work of a Climate Change Analyst.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as climate change, clean water, and sustainable cities, which are all relevant to the work of an Environmental Lawyer.
Renewable Energy Engineer
Renewable Energy Engineers design and implement renewable energy systems. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as clean energy, sustainable cities, and climate change, which are all relevant to the work of a Renewable Energy Engineer.
Public Health Specialist
Public Health Specialists work to improve the health of communities. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as poverty, hunger, and health and well-being, which are all relevant to the work of a Public Health Specialist.
Sustainable Supply Chain Manager
Sustainable Supply Chain Managers ensure that supply chains are environmentally and socially responsible. This course can help prepare for this role by providing a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals, which are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations to promote sustainable development. The course covers topics such as sustainable consumption and production, responsible production, and climate change, which are all relevant to the work of a Sustainable Supply Chain Manager.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The UN Sustainable Development Goals: an Interdisciplinary Academic Introduction.
This report provides an annual update on the progress towards achieving the SDGs. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the latest data and trends on sustainable development.
This document is the official outcome document of the 2015 UN Summit on Sustainable Development. It provides a comprehensive overview of the SDGs and their targets.
Provides an economic perspective on sustainable development. It useful reference for anyone interested in the economic implications of the SDGs.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the SDGs. It useful reference tool for anyone interested in the SDGs.
Provides a global perspective on the SDGs. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the challenges and opportunities of achieving the SDGs in different parts of the world.
Provides a sense of urgency about the need to achieve the SDGs. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the importance of the SDGs and the need to take action.

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