Climate puzzle brings first-year students into the debate on sustainable management at an early stage
How can climate change be communicated in an understandable way - and strengthen team spirit at the same time? At the Department of Management, Controlling, HealthCare at Ludwigshafen University of Applied Sciences, the answer is: by getting involved. First-semester students on the degree programs in Business Administration with a focus on Sustainability Management have now tried out exactly that - in the Climate Puzzle organized by Climate Fresk Germany.
The workshop, moderated by Prof. Dr. Enver Doruk Özdemir, focuses on personal initiative rather than lecture-style teaching. Participants work their way through the key global findings of climate research using scientifically based maps. Step by step, an overall picture emerges - from causes to tipping points and social impacts.
"Climate science is often considered difficult to access. The format deliberately breaks down barriers," explains Özdemir. At the same time, the aim is not just to impart knowledge, but to get people to take action. The approach: understanding, reflecting, discussing - and developing motivation for change.
It is no coincidence that the workshop takes place in the first semester. In the initial phase of the course, the focus is on traditional business administration content. However, the Climate Puzzle creates an early link to later specialization and provides an initial in-depth insight into key sustainability issues.
There is also the social aspect: for many students, it is one of the first opportunities to get to know each other intensively. The group work leads to discussions, a change of perspective - and often also initial networks. As a team-building measure, the format has an impact that goes far beyond the actual content.
The concept has long been established internationally. The workshop is part of the "Climate Fresk" movement, which reaches millions of people worldwide and has been implemented in over 50 languages. The aim is to disseminate knowledge and promote social commitment at the same time.
In Ludwigshafen, the approach is proving to work. For the students, climate change is not presented in abstract terms, but made tangible. The discussions often continue beyond the workshop - during their studies, in everyday life and in their personal environment.
Anyone interested in a career at the interface of business and sustainability can become part of this development. The application phase for the winter semester is currently underway. The degree programs offer a sound business education - supplemented by the skills that are increasingly in demand for sustainable business.
More information about the degree programs: www.hwg-lu.de/studium/bachelor/bwl-mit-schwerpunkt-nachhaltigkeitsmanagement
