Integrating Circular Supply Chains into Experiential Learning: Enhancing Learning Experiences in Higher Education

Abstract

This work integrates the circular economy (CE) into experiential learning in higher education, focusing on industrial and systems engineering. It addresses the need for suitable learning experiences and pedagogical strategies to enhance CE and sustainability education in active learning research. Accordingly, this study proposes integrating Kolb’s experiential learning cycle with the ADDIE model into an instructional design framework for reflective and active engagement in learning activities within realistic circular supply chain scenarios. The methodology demonstrates this framework through a case study of an undergraduate module for CE problem-solving, focusing on waste reduction within small and medium enterprises in Mexico City. Based on student surveys and achievement metrics, results show positive student feedback and evaluation results, meeting module targets. This work’s main contribution offers a framework for creating novel experiential learning cases and cultivating sustainability-related and disciplinary learning outcomes. It also recognises valuable links for citizenship commitment, problem-solving, community engagement, and CE education. However, this work acknowledges limitations in complex problem-solving difficulties, a resource-demanding nature, restricted transferability, and the limited evaluation of learning effectiveness. Future research will explore this work’s relevance across Kolb’s learning styles and diverse industries, focusing on student interest and motivation, and evaluating its impact on student outcomes in various educational contexts.

Publication DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310789
Divisions: College of Business and Social Sciences > Aston Business School > Operations & Information Management
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College of Business and Social Sciences
College of Business and Social Sciences > Aston Business School
Aston University (General)
Funding Information: This research received no external funding.
Additional Information: Copyright © 2024 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Publication ISSN: 2071-1050
Data Access Statement: No new data were created or analyzed in this study. Data sharing is not applicable to this article.
Last Modified: 31 Mar 2025 07:27
Date Deposited: 17 Dec 2024 10:51
Full Text Link:
Related URLs: https://www.mdp ... 050/16/23/10789 (Publisher URL)
PURE Output Type: Article
Published Date: 2024-12-09
Accepted Date: 2024-12-06
Authors: Salinas-Navarro, David Ernesto
Palma-Mendoza, Jaime Alberto
Vilalta-Perdomo, Eliseo (ORCID Profile 0000-0002-4551-8327)

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