🌍 As part of the ENVIHEI pilot implementation, 38 students from Montanuniversität Leoben explored real-world sustainability challenges in the raw materials and mining sector through Project-Based Learning (PBL). The activities were carried out over 16 weeks within the International Master’s Degree in Advanced Mineral Resources Development.
⛏️ Working in diverse teams, students investigated complex real-world case studies, including the Jadar Project, the Salar de Atacama, the Simandou project, the Glencore coal controversy, the Fen Complex investment, and Planetary Boundaries. The challenges encouraged students to examine sustainability from environmental, economic and social perspectives and to consider the different viewpoints of stakeholders involved.
🤖 A distinctive element of the implementation was the integration of Artificial Intelligence into the PBL process. Students were encouraged to use AI critically as part of their group work, evaluating AI-generated information and reflecting on its role as a collaborative tool.
📚 Throughout the project, students developed learning logs, system maps, literature reviews, technical reports and scientific posters. Each group was supported by an assigned mentor, who provided technical and organisational guidance throughout the project.
🎯 Overall, the pilot demonstrated how PBL can connect sustainability education with complex challenges in the raw materials sector. The experience enabled students to strengthen their systems thinking, critical thinking, teamwork and problem-solving skills while developing and communicating possible pathways towards more sustainable mining and raw materials practices.
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