EMPOWERING FUTURE LEADERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS

The Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) module at Queen’s University Belfast is a pioneering initiative designed to equip undergraduate students with the knowledge and skills to tackle sustainability challenges within the agri-food sector. Developed by an interdisciplinary team of food scientists, nutritionists, and veterinarians, the module integrates One Health principles, transformative pedagogies, and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).

Through active learning techniques such as problem-based learning, place-based learning, and authentic assessment, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and industry engagement skills. Featuring direct interaction with industry professionals, immersive field trips, and real-world challenges, the module has led to high student engagement, positive feedback, and measurable improvements in problem-solving skills. Beyond individual student impact, its innovative approach has shaped curriculum development across the School of Biological Sciences and stands as a model for sustainability education in higher education.

BRIDGING THE GAP: ADDRESSING A CRITICAL NEED IN SUSTAINABILITY EDUCATION

The SFS module was introduced to address a gap in the Food Science and Nutrition (FSN) programme, where students previously lacked exposure to the interconnected nature of food systems, sustainability, and public health. In response to the increasing demand for sustainability-focused education and the recommendations of the National Food Strategy, this module was designed to provide not only theoretical knowledge but also practical application in real-world contexts. 

TRANSFORMATIVE TEACHING FOR REAL-WORLD IMPACT

The module is outward-facing and student-centred, aligning with Queen’s Strategy 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Its approach is rooted in transformative learning theories, emphasising experiential learning, critical reflection, and industry engagement. 

• Dynamic Delivery Format: A blend of interactive lectures, problem-solving workshops, guest lectures, field trips, and computer-based practical sessions
• Applied Teaching Philosophy: Real-world application fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Theoretical and Pedagogical Alignment: Integration of ESD principles with active learning strategies such as problem-based and place-based learning enhances student engagement

PIONEERING INNOVATIONS IN TEACHING AND LEARNING

• Active Learning in Action: Students collaborate with industry partners to tackle real-world sustainability challenges
• Harnessing Technology: The module features an innovative computer-based practical using Nutritics software to assess the dietary and environmental impact of food choices
• Industry Integration: Weekly guest lectures and site visits provide students with direct exposure to agri-food businesses, charities, and professional bodies
• Authentic Assessment: Assessments such as a digital mindset report, carbon footprint analysis, and group poster presentations mirror real-world industry tasks

TRANSFORMING STUDENT LEARNING AND INSTITUTIONAL PRACTICE

The module has had a profound impact on student engagement and learning, reflected in institutional module evaluation questionnaire (MEQ) results, with an overall satisfaction score of 4.7/5. Students highlighted the interactive and applied nature of the module:

“This module was my favourite, the classes and trip were really interactive so it made the classes enjoyable.”

“An invaluable experience which allowed everything we had been learning to combine and click into place.”

Statistically significant improvements in students’ problem-solving abilities have been recorded, and the success of the module has influenced curriculum development within the School of Biological Sciences. Its approach has been recognised and disseminated through Queen's Teaching & Learning conferences, Advance HE case studies, and QAA subject benchmark reviews. 

INDUSTRY IMPACT AND FEEDBACK

“Providing students with real-life examples of some of the issues service users face allowed them to be exposed to stories that they may not have normally been exposed to and put into perspective the different needs of society and how we are trying to meet these. This module is encouraging students to develop the knowledge, skills and attributes required to improve sustainability and promote positive change.” - Social Supermarket Manager, The Warehouse

“As a business we recognise the value of collaboration in meeting the needs of a rapidly changing industry. The clever design of this module builds not only knowledge but genuinely transferrable skillsets that prepare students for roles within multiple industrial sectors. It delivers this skill as part of an active learning pedagogy… students don’t just listen to the theory but engage in workshops and practical experiences that allow them to demonstrate competence when in employment.” - Sustainability Manager, Leprino Foods

EXPANDING THE REACH OF SUSTAINABILITY EDUCATION

Building on its success, the SFS module will continue to evolve, incorporating new digital learning tools and expanding industry collaborations. Future developments include:

• AI-Driven Sustainability Analysis: Enhancing student learning through advanced digital tools
• Micro-Credentials for Industry Professionals: Extending the module’s impact beyond undergraduate education
• Wider Curriculum Integration: Embedding the module’s principles across Queen’s University Belfast and beyond

With these next steps, the SFS module aims to sustain its role as a transformative force in sustainability education, equipping future leaders with the skills to drive meaningful change in the agri-food sector. 
  

Lessons from a Leading Sustainability Module

• Innovative and Transformative Pedagogy: The SFS module exemplifies best practices in sustainability education through problem-based and place-based learning
• Real-World Application: Close collaboration with industry ensures students gain practical experience and industry-relevant skills
• High Student Engagement and Impact: Positive feedback and measurable learning gains highlight the effectiveness of the approach
• Institutional and Sector-Wide Influence: The module serves as a model for curriculum development and has informed best practices in sustainability education at national and international levels

“I applaud the role the module is playing in developing critical thinking, problem solving, team working, and communication skills. Our industry needs positive change makers… and this module is delivering on providing specialist vital knowledge and...skills our industry needs.” 

- Sustainability Manager, Gilfresh Produce