The Quest for Sustainable Teaching Praxis: Opportunities and Challenges of Multidisciplinary and Multicultural Teamwork

• Main Authors: Elli Doukanari, Despo Ktoridou, Leonidas Efthymiou, Epaminondas Epaminonda
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-06-01
• Series: Sustainability
• Subjects: sustainable education; sustainability; educational inclusion; multidisciplinary learning; multicultural learning; teamwork
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/13/13/7210

This article investigates the prospect of implementing multidisciplinary and multicultural student teamwork (MMT), along with Case-based Learning (CBL) and Problem-based Learning (PBL), as a sustainable teaching practice. Based on a mixed-method approach, which includes direct observation (both physical and virtual), questionnaire distribution, and focus groups, the study reveals that MMT through CBL and PBL can both facilitate and hinder sustainable learning. Our findings show that while MMT enhances knowledge sharing, it also poses a wide range of challenges, raising questions about its social significance as a sustainable teaching practice. The study suggests the implementation of certain mechanisms, such as ‘Teamwork Training’ and ‘Pedagogical Mentors’, aiming to strengthen the sustainable orientation of MMT through CBL and PBL.