LFU:online

This course is built on the fundamental premise that implementing corporate sustainability and sustainable (resource) management is primarily a strategic and organizational problem. As such, the module will provide the students with a solid understanding in strategy and organization from a sustainability perspective and pursues the “sustainability problem” by trying to answer three questions. WHY should companies move beyond serving merely economic purposes? WHAT makes a sustainable company, e.g. how would key business functions look like and which key instruments exist? And finally, HOW can managers (you?) build a sustainable business model and a sustainable firm and unfold it over time, i.e. which change and learning process efforts are important in this endeavor?   

We accomplish the course objectives through the following teaching methods. The first part (“Vorlesung”) is characterized by engaging students in active learning, based on theoretical foundations, highly interactive lectures, case studies coupled with plenary discussions, and by providing evidences thanks to managers’ leadership examples. If possible, guest instructors will be invited. The second part (“Seminar) is dedicated to in-depth case studies and research papers, both to be developed by students, with the help of feedback (by peers and instructor). It is absolutely necessary that students prepare all sessions according to the syllabus.

This course is a “hands-on,” participation-based course (undoubtedly not a traditional-style class) that relies on deep insights from the faculty, group interaction, discussion, and individual participation. It involves a mixture of classroom presentation, guest lectures, experiential exercises, activities, case studies, one two day off-site excursion and a course blog. The course requires a rigorous self-assessment, active participation and reflection as well as heavy work and reading load. Participants will be required to familiarize themselves with the literature as well as participate in lively class and blog discussions, reflect on excursions, lectures and tasks that will be personally challenging.

We will draw from literature in international journals. Parts of the course are drawn from classic (environmental economics) literature, others are – owing to the novelty of the debate – from recent case studies, press articles and recent book publications. Much of the material is contributed from the faculty, "pristine" and rich in practice-insights.

The final module grade is based on a total of 100 points (lecture & seminar). Passing the course requires a positive evaluation of each of the assignments, and a total of 60%.

The course requires some prior reading and preparation. Students will find basic literature for group and individual work in the course readings listed below. Additionally, you are encouraged to visit the SOWI library and use our online journal access on a regular basis. Sessions will be based on the assumption that you have read all assigned material prior to attending the session in which it is discussed.

A syllabus will be online asap.

Participation requirements see curricula.

Please see also the excursion date!