Arts and design education for sustainable development

Abstract

The UN General Assembly realized in 1983 that there was a heavy deterioration of the human environment and natural resources, and established the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED). WCED's mission was to unite countries to pursue sustainable development together. This commission prepared a report called as "Our Common Future" in October 1987. The focus in the report was that the perspectives of society and nature are equal to that of economy. Countries' economic and social development being sustainable, preventing global climate changes and natural disasters are directly proportionate to education strategies' involving sustainability. Sustainability education is a model that aims to support the learners to become responsible citizens who struggle for a more sustainable world with their knowledge, skills, values and mental abilities. UNESCO indicates that "Education for Sustainable Development" allows every human being to acquire the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values necessary to shape a sustainable future. Art and design education has a multi-directional content for sustainable development ideals. For example, aesthetic sensitivity and critical thinking which are in the nature of art and design subjects, help students grow as individuals who are environment and ecosystem-sensitive. Sustainability of art and design education could be seen in two-directions. The first side is to keep students away from any kind of violence by providing them with sensitivity and empathy as well as help them develop respect for society and environment. In this way, students gain susceptibility and eagerness to protect ecosystem and live in the limits of nature. The second side is the sustainability projects carried out by students and instructors in art and design lessons. These are applications especially to clarify that a sustainable environment, nature and ecosystem is important for a sustainable life. This study includes some practical examples about the second side.