Future Design @ Hawaii Project

Today Hawaii is a stunningly beautiful place with a vibrant indigenous host culture. But what will the scenario be like in forty years time? Will a sustainable Hawaii exist? Although the future is yet to be determined, possible scenarios for 2050 can be found through the work of The Hawaii Research Centre for Future Studies colour coded "Orange", "Silver", "Maroon" and "Blue". Building on sound research, and from observations and data from the present, they present possibilities of the Hawaiian islands. But how can educators instill an equal consideration for the many uncertainties contained in each scenario?

At Commonwealth Secondary School in Singapore, a team of educators affiliated with EWC's Climate Change Teacher Project attempted a solution. They assigned teams of students in a Geography class to one of the scenarios then tasked them with designing a suitable estate (either a resort or a group of houses) based on their assigned scenarios. EWC fellows and alumni offered feedback on the students work and shared their knowledge of Hawaii through an online mentorship.

The design process required teams to engage with the scenario in ways they otherwise may not have. By analyzing and researching details of their future scenarios then hearing about other teams' designs the educators hope the students will truly see the possibilities that lie ahead. And in the process develop preparation for the inherent uncertainty of their futures on a changed planet.

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Education

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