Environmental sustainability in social work education: An online initiative to encourage global citizenship

Abstract

This article explores the impact of an online programme developed to educate Australian social work students about environmental sustainability. Drawing on Hawkins’ definition of global citizenship, online workshop activities are used to develop students’ knowledge, concern and action about environmental degradation in a global context. A qualitative approach is used to gauge the value of the programme, and outcomes indicate benefits to student learning about social justice issues, particularly in relation to gender, carbon emissions and global impacts. Implications for social work education are discussed, and a framework for future curriculum development is presented.