Module manager: Dr Laura Smith
Email: L.E.Smith1@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: 1 May to 30 Jun (2mth)(adv yr), 1 May to 30 June, 1 Nov to 31 Dec, 1 Nov to 31 Dec (2mth)(adv yr) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
Students are required to meet the programme entry requirements prior to studying the module.
This module is not approved as an Elective
The module provides a foundation for exploring the relationship between organisations (public and private) and sustainability. Key issues covered include: - The origins and evolution of strong sustainability; - The factors driving sustainable practices in business; - Theories and models related to strong sustainability; - Case studies of responsible business practice. Through studying the module, students will appreciate the complexities associated with sustainability and be able to discuss and debate these complexities in an informed and critical manner.
This module provides a foundation for exploring the relationship between organisations (public and private) and sustainability. Through studying the module students will have the opportunity to examine the origins, evolution and contemporary issues related to sustainable development and strong sustainability.
Students will also gain skills and knowledge enabling them to:
- Critically analyse the internal and external factors contributing to the adoption of sustainable practices;
- Evaluate the business case for strong sustainability.
Throughout the module students will be introduced to the key theoretical perspectives, frameworks and models relating to sustainability. To bridge the gap between theory and practice the module will feature several case studies requiring the students to assess the application of sustainability theories and frameworks.
Whilst the module will be delivered online to students in a variety of geographic locations student-student learning will form an integral part of the module. This will be facilitated through a series of investigative and formative tasks with the outcomes discussed/debated both synchronously (webinars) and asynchronously (discussion forums).
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Summarise and discuss key issues related to the historical and intellectual origins of sustainable development, and the evolution and contemporary approaches to strong sustainability within society and organisations.
2. Analyse and critically assess key internal and external factors stimulating organisations and society toward sustainable practices.
3: Critically analyse case studies of responsible business practice at the micro and macro level.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
1. Critically evaluate strong sustainability issues as they affect organisations activities from a theoretically informed perspective.
2. Reflect, debate and communicate the complex relationship between strong sustainability and business.
Indicative content for this module includes:
1. Defining sustainability: the history of ideas re: sustainability, and different ways of understanding it.
2. Internal and external drivers for responsible business.
3. Critical analysis of the business case for sustainability.
4. Theories of responsible business and sustainable business models.
5. Case studies of responsible business practice and a critical analysis of contemporary business practice.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-line Learning | 6 | 1 | 6 |
| Discussion forum | 6 | 1 | 6 |
| Independent online learning hours | 24 | ||
| Private study hours | 114 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 12 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
Independent online learning refers to non-facilitated directed learning. Students will work through bespoke interactive learning resources and reflective activities in the VLE.
Private study refers to directed reading and self-directed research in support of learning activities and discussions, as well as in preparation for assessments.
- The module’s digital learning materials provide regular opportunities for participants to check their understanding and gain feedback (e.g., case studies with short answer questions and automated feedback, MCQs with detailed feedback on correct/incorrect answers).
- The individual unit webinars and discussion forums provide opportunities for formative feedback from peers and tutors.
- Students will develop a 2-minute video of a sustainability problem and will have the opportunity to receive feedback from peers.
- Students will develop a 5-minute video of a sustainability model and will receive general feedback from module tutors.
- The module assessment -15-minute video.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Presentation | 15-minute video presentation | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 23/07/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team