How e-learning can accelerate education for sustainable development in higher education: a thematic review of literature

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to explore the role of e-learning in attaining sustainability goals in education, i.e., Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). It examines the inclusion of e-learning solutions in the current education system leading to sustainable educational institutes and contributing to attaining ESD. Further, it highlights the challenges faced by educational institutes in implementing e-learning solutions. Through a thematic and critical review of past literature in the area of sustainability, e-learning, higher education, and potential challenges, 23 papers have been shortlisted for the current research. As the concept of sustainability in the Indian Education System is still nascent, the paper presents a holistic review of the literature to adhere to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)-4 in Indian Higher Education System. The paper illustrates that implementing e-learning solutions in higher education through its curriculum, teaching-learning pedagogies, and innovative technologies can help higher education institutions (HEIs) to contribute toward ESD.