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Abstract

This article clarifies the role of higher education networking in promoting Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). The significance of ESD in higher education has been recognized since the 1990s. Globalization and internationalization emphasize the importance of creating partnerships through networking and international collaboration. Higher education networks play a significant role in the development of ESD. This article analyses three networks in Asia to compare the characteristics of networking and ESD in higher education. It also identifies the significance of networking in advancing the following aspects: the whole school/institution approach, the formation of a platform through partnership building, interdisciplinary educational research activities, and the sharing of knowledge. The networks include environmental education teachers, graduate schools for environmental studies in the Asia-Pacific region, and a university network that supports UNESCO-associated schools in Japan.

Keywords

Higher education networks interdisciplinary approach whole school approach education for sustainable development (ESD)

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Advancing Education for Sustainable Development and Roles of Higher Education Networks

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