The implementation of the unique UWI Living Lab practicum requires authentic projects and directors to co-advise graduate students assigned to complete for credit, an approved sustainability initiative.
According to Dr. Claudette Coote - Thompson, the MSc. Programme lead, from inception Celia Davidson Francis, the Regional Director of the One UWI Responsible Futures Programme responded promptly, positively and enthusiastically to the invitation to identify feasible projects that are aligned with the UWI’s strategic sustainability goals. She noted that Celia’s immediate grasp of the course’s purpose was an asset to piloting the course during the 2024 summer semester.
She also said that as guest presenter and project liaison for two consecutive summers, Celia’s thoughtful and informative presentation on the Responsible Futures initiative supplemented introductory lectures and readings on the role of higher education institutions in shaping sustainability mind-sets. More importantly her ideas based on the initiative’s priority were instrumental to steering graduate students toward identifying, scoping and planning relevant projects.
Dr. Coote is proud that, since the masters in Climate Studies graduate programme was launched in 2024, graduate student teams have explored and recommended SDG-aligned civic engagement through clubs and societies across the UWI campuses, proposed an evidence-based framework for Green Club accreditation among others.
Dr. Coote states: “The incremental success of the UWI Living Lab pilot was achieved by the input and collegial support of Celia Davidson Francis. The non-traditional course utilizes project-based and portfolio assessment, cooperative learning, reflection and non-linear processes that are initially unsettling for students. As the developer and lecturer for the course, I am expressing my profound gratitude to Celia for her valuable assistance in making project ideas concrete and meaningful for the two cohorts. Despite multiple commitments during the summer months, you were always present to join the panel for students’ final presentation panel. Her interest and commitment in the launch of this unique course will be unforgettable. Given the strong applicability of the graduate students’ projects and the intent of the programme to identify cost effective solutions for the university’s sustainability gap, there are significant anticipated benefits from the Responsible Futures successor ensuring continuity of the Living Lab projects.”
