The purpose of this educational scenario is to raise students’ awareness about the importance of learning for environmental sustainability; while developing the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to think critically and create projects that support a more sustainable world. Students are encouraged to act as responsible citizens, demonstrating empathy and care for our planet. Digital skills are enhanced as they use computers to design solutions and promote environmental messages. Their ideas not only highlight personal responsibilities for nature conservation but also aim to raise social awareness for a greener future.
The scenario is part of the “Graphic Applications” course for 3rd-year Vocational High School students (Sector of Applied Arts, specialization of Graphic Arts). Because of its connection to Vocational Education, it is of utmost importance that it interfaces with the professional resources that students will acquire and use in the job market. For this reason, the purpose of the scenario is based on two important pillars. How students will become responsible citizens themselves both in their everyday lives and in the professional field. This double meaning is also understood by the title of the scenario, as it is essential for students not only to explore methods and techniques that follow the rules of sustainability but also to be able to produce work in order to capture people’s interest and raise awareness.
This scenario is specifically focusing on poster design. It is also interrelated with the “Digital Print Design” course. The scenario follows the 5E didactic model of inquiry-based learning and outlines a 10-hour lesson plan, where several of the green competences described in the GreenComp framework are covered by the activities mentioned.
Hour 1 (Engage): Introduction to environmental challenges and the concept of sustainable citizenship. Students discuss their understanding of sustainability and citizenship, and whether they are familiar with the 17 SDGs. In this phase the teacher checks the prior knowledge of the students and foster their interest in the upcoming activities
Hours 2-3 (Explore): Presentation of the SDGs by the teacher. Students are divided into groups of 3-4 based on class dynamics. They discuss ways to contribute to the community and nature, focusing on SDGs 13, 14 and 15. The teacher offers the students opportunities to explore their ideas in detail. The groups suggest ideas for posters, choose specific targets, and develop their slogans. Group discussions on community contributions, poster design ideas, and preparation for an interview with a local printing company manager.
Hours 4-6 (Explain): Visiting a local printing company is a great way to spark students thinking about what kind of career may interest them. A working company in action gives students the opportunity to see the different kinds of job environments. The interview will provide students with valuable information about how a printing company operates, the importance of sustainability in the industry, sustainable poster design proposals etc.
Hours 7-9 (Elaborate): Consolidation activities. Students apply sustainable design techniques to create their posters with guidance from the teacher.
Hour 10 (Evaluate): Groups present their posters, explaining their design choices and impact, followed by peer feedback and completing a feedback form.
