The concept of transformation and its implications for educational science using the example of Education for Sustainable Development
Transformation has become a much-used “buzzword”. Against the backdrop of accelerating sustainability crises such as climate change or the loss of global biodiversity, planetary boundaries are to be preserved for a safe space for humanity on earth within the framework of a transformation of our world towards the global sustainability goals (SDGs). At the same time, claims for global justice are a central goal of the sustainability debate. The concept of transformation is also gaining importance for educational science. But who or what are the levels of reference regarding transformation: individuals, groups, organisations and societies or research practices and disciplines? What role do crises play in transformation processes? And by whom are transformation discourses legitimised and how?
The lecture aims to explore the concept of transformation and to examine it with regard to its relevance and implications for questions in educational science. With a view to the meaning of transformation in the context of educational science, potential levels of research on transformation processes will be discussed. Overall, it will be outlined how social transformation processes towards sustainability can not only be examined retrospectively in educational science, but can also be accompanied and reflected on prospectively. These considerations will be illustrated by research projects in the field of Education for Sustainable Development.