Sustainable Schools Programs: What Influence on Schools, and How Do We Know?

• In Event: Integrating Environmental Education: International Policy and Program Initiatives

Abstract

Our paper focuses on our experience of researching the influence of ResourceSmart Schools, a sustainable schools program in Victoria, Australia. Drawing on ideas from program theory and realist synthesis, we illustrate and reflect upon our approach to conceptualising, investigating and generating evidence about the program’s impacts and influence in participating schools. Drawing on evidence from our work and the wider literature, we argue for a more nuanced discussion and more sophisticated investigations into (i) the complexities of program influence, rather than impacts only, and (ii) efforts to understand their key features and distinction. Our conclusions suggest key areas of development for our own work, the provision of environmental and sustainability education, and their evaluation and research more broadly.

Authors

• Alan D. Reid, Monash University

• Mark Rickinson, Monash Univeristy

• Matthew Hall, Monash University