Research methods towards sustainability - Thinking Otherwise

Charlotte Nussey (School of Earth and Environment)

Project overview

The focus of this fellowship was inspired by decolonial and anti-racist scholars and activists who raise fundamental questions of how we can 'think otherwise' about our research methods practices and our pedagogical principles. It was equally inspired by former and current students who have asked how we can start to move beyond business as usual approaches to education and sustainability, collectively expanding spaces for disruption and hope.

The research approach

My research looks at how we can critically reflect on and improve the ways we teach and carry out research, especially in the areas of environmental justice and sustainability. The Fellowship will work with students as partners to explore the challenges associated with teaching and learning research methods, and to reflect together on how these challenges are shaped by different experiences of research and education, within the broader contexts of lasting colonialism and the neoliberal university.

The fellowship will bring together students from the School of Earth and Environment to form a co-production group, which will refine the specific goals, focus and research methods of the project. It begins with a commitment to critical approaches which value and recognise students as knowledge bearers of their own lived experiences. Together, the students will be supported to co-facilitate three workshops with their peers, working with a live animator who will generate visual representations of the discussions to spark shared analysis.

If you would like to find out more about the project contact Charlotte Nussey

Connect with Charlotte on LinkedIn

Each fellowship has a project sponsor that helps the fellows achieve impact across the institution. The sponsor for this fellowship is William Young.

Project start date: September 2025