Creating possibility for Innovation & Sustainability in Higher Education – Workshop BIP UNIFI

Creating possibility for Innovation & Sustainability in Higher Education – Workshop BIP UNIFI

Tags : change management corporate social responsibility diversity Education Engagement formazione Formazione Esperienziale Piani Projects SOSTENIBILITA' Sviluppo Sostenibile Teambuilding theory U università youth

Did you know about the incredible Blended Intensive Programmes (BIP) under Action 1 of Erasmus+ 2021–2027?
These inclusive programs are hosted by European partner universities and bring together students of all ethnicities, ages, and academic backgrounds for short-term, high-impact learning experiences that combine online and in-person formats.

I had the honour of being invited as a guest lecturer in one of these programmes, where I led a workshop on pedagogical innovation, experiential learning, and sustainability.

As a kickoff and activation, I introduced Theory U and guided the group through the Case Clinic Coaching Circle, a peer-to-peer method developed by the Presencing Institute at MIT (Prof. Otto Scharmer). This tool allowed students to explore deep listening, share real cases, and reflect on challenges while building authentic connections.

The feedback was powerful — students appreciated the opportunity to be seen, heard, and supported. They left with concrete skills for both personal growth and professional development.

Learning outcomes achieved:

Knowledge Developed

• Understanding principles, theories, and approaches to social and environmental sustainability and sustainable human development.
• Gaining insights into the promotion of sustainable development within the complexity of territories, considering environmental, economic, social, and cultural ecosystems.

Skills Acquired

• Applying systems thinking, critical thinking, and problem-framing to evaluate decisions.
• Analyzing the complexity of interconnected systems shaped by values, experiences, and worldviews.
• Developing creative and critical thinking around future trajectories.
• Evaluating the impact of individual and professional behaviour on the environment, society, and culture.
• Designing initiatives to promote behaviour that respects people and the planet.

Soft Skills Strengthened

• Teamwork and collaboration, especially in multicultural and international contexts.
• Communication and language skills.
• Critical, systemic thinking; problem posing and problem solving.
• Respect for diverse values and cultures.
• Self-management, reflection, and adaptability.
• Learning to learn.

Education for sustainability is not only about knowledge, but about transformation. If you want to dive deeper or consider participating in future editions, explore the official programme page:
Blended Intensive Programmes – University of Florence

I’m always open to collaboration, facilitation, or designing tailored learning journeys for institutions and communities ready to lead change.

#ErasmusPlus #BIP #SustainabilityEducation #ExperientialLearning #TheoryU #CoachingCircle #SDGs #HigherEd #YouthEmpowerment #Transformation #LifelongLearning