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IA20140

Academic Year 2024/2025

Design a Sustainable Future (IA20140)

Subject:
Innovation Academy
College:
VP - Research, Innov & Impact
School:
Innovation Academy
Level:
2 (Intermediate)
Credits:
5
Module Coordinator:
Mr Avadhoot Potdar
Trimester:
Autumn and Spring (separate)
Mode of Delivery:
On Campus
Internship Module:
No
How will I be graded?
Pass/Fail (GPA Neutral)

Curricular information is subject to change.

This module empowers students to develop sustainable ventures that address real-world challenges. Through a startup approach, students will explore innovative solutions rooted in biomimicry, the circular economy, and regenerative practices.

Module Overview:

This dynamic module introduces students to the principles of the circular and regenerative economies. With a focus on biomimicry and sustainable business models, students will learn to create solutions that are both ecologically and economically viable. The module incorporates a startup mindset, encouraging entrepreneurial thinking and innovation in the development of sustainable businesses.

Key Components:

Sustainable Business Models: Apply the Sustainable Business Model Canvas to create business models that emphasize sustainability and long-term viability.

Circular Economy: Delve into circular economy principles, designing business solutions that minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency.

Biomimicry: Explore how nature-inspired design can drive sustainable innovation in products and services.
Regenerative Economy: Learn the principles of a regenerative economy, focusing on restoring and revitalizing natural systems through business practices.

Startup Approach: Embrace a startup mindset, focusing on rapid prototyping, iterative design, and entrepreneurial strategies for sustainable business development.

Learning Approach:

The module adopts a hands-on, practical approach to learning, centered at UCD Greenacre, a unique space for engaging with sustainability challenges. Students will participate in group discussions, interactive workshops, and direct fieldwork at innovative facilities such as the Upcycle Mushroom Farm and Precious Plastic. The UCD Innovation Academy brings together educator-practitioners with real-world experience to guide students through an action-oriented, experiential learning journey.

Assessment:

Please note that assessment for this module primarily takes place during class time, with a small amount of pre-work and an individual reflective report, typically due within two weeks after the module concludes.

About this Module

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

Develop sustainable business models using Design Thinking and circular economy principles to address real-life sustainability challenges.

Apply knowledge gained from evaluating circular economy case studies and field trips to inform and create sustainable business solutions.

Effectively communicate sustainable business solutions, showcasing the process and identifying areas for improvement.

Reflect on personal and collective learning experiences, identifying opportunities for growth and continued development as agents of positive change for a sustainable future.

Indicative Module Content:

Creative Thinking: Exploring creativity through tasks, techniques and discussion
Idea Generation Techniques & Ideation Tools
Circular Economy principles
Sustainable business model canvas
Peer-peer feedback and learning

Student Effort Hours:
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

9
Small Group

9
Conversation Class

3
Field Trip/External Visits

3
Specified Learning Activities

40
Autonomous Student Learning

40
Total

104

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
All Innovation Academy modules take a 'learning from doing' approach, combining individual and group activities including presentations, discussion, and reflection.
Active/task-based learning
Real-world challenges
Teamwork
Reflective Learning
Enquiry & Problem-based learning
Student Presentations

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 

Assessment Strategy
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Reflective Assignment: Reflection Report Week 1 Pass/Fail Grade Scale Yes
30
 Yes
Participation in Learning Activities: The module requires active participation and engagement, which necessitates attendance at all Scheduled classes.
Week 1 Pass/Fail Grade Scale Yes
30
 Yes
Group Work Assignment: Team Project Presentation Week 1 Pass/Fail Grade Scale Yes
40
 Yes

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 

Remediation Type Remediation Timing
Repeat Within Two Trimesters
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Feedback can be given to students upon request. This may include feedback on their participation during the module and/or their deliverables.

Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
Autumn Workshop Offering 1 Week(s) - 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Wed 14:00 - 16:50
Autumn Workshop Offering 2 Week(s) - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 Fri 14:00 - 16:50
Spring Workshop Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 31 Wed 14:00 - 16:50
Spring Workshop Offering 2 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31 Fri 14:00 - 16:50
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