Current Doctoral Research

PhD Dissertation Year 4 - Ongoing

Implementing Education for Sustainable Development in Ontario K–8 School Classrooms

Research Overview

This doctoral research investigates how Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is being implemented in elementary school classrooms across Ontario, Canada. The study examines the pedagogical approaches educators use, the challenges they face, and the learning outcomes achieved when integrating sustainability principles into K–8 curricula.

Through qualitative research methods, this work aims to provide insights into effective strategies for embedding ESD in classroom practice, ultimately contributing to the development of more sustainable and environmentally conscious educational systems.

Research Focus

  • Curriculum integration strategies
  • Teacher perspectives and practices
  • Student learning experiences
  • Implementation challenges
  • Policy implications

Methodology

  • Qualitative research design
  • Case study approach
  • Classroom observations
  • Teacher interviews
  • Document analysis

Supervision

Supervisor: Dr. Isha DeCoito

Institution: Western University, Faculty of Education

Contact: idecoito@uwo.ca

Research Interests

Education for Sustainability

Exploring how education can promote sustainable development goals, environmental stewardship, and responsible citizenship. This includes investigating pedagogical approaches that foster systems thinking, critical reflection, and action-oriented learning for a sustainable future.

Curriculum & Pedagogy

Investigating innovative approaches to curriculum design and instructional strategies that engage learners and promote deep understanding. Focus on developing curricula that are relevant, inclusive, and responsive to contemporary educational challenges.

Experiential Learning

Examining hands-on, real-world learning experiences that connect classroom knowledge to practical application. Research into outdoor education, place-based learning, and other experiential approaches that enhance student engagement and understanding.

Qualitative Research

Utilizing qualitative methodologies including case studies, interviews, and ethnographic approaches to understand complex educational phenomena. Focus on capturing rich, contextual data that reveals the lived experiences of educators and learners.

Previous Research

Master's Thesis 2017

Pre-service Teachers Experiences of learning about Education for Sustainable Development

University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

A case study exploring how pre-service teachers experience and understand Education for Sustainable Development in their teacher preparation programs.

View Thesis →
Honours Thesis 2016

A Comparative Analysis of South African and Nigerian Curricula on ESD Integration

University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Comparative study examining how Education for Sustainable Development is integrated into Grade 7 curriculum in South Africa and the Basic Science and Technology syllabus in Nigeria.