Beginning Scottish geography teachers' perceptions of education for sustainable development

At the start of the 21st century the global pace of change and challenge continues unabated (Cullingford and Gunn, 2005). Increasingly individuals need to be equipped with the skills to manage and navigate uncertain futures (Irving, 1999). The Scottish Government's [SG] ambitions are high: Our aim is that by 2014 people in Scotland will have developed the knowledge, understanding, skills and values to live more sustainable lives (Scottish Executive [SE], 2006). Cobb, Darling-Hammond and Murangi (1995) cited in Cobb (1999) refer to the pivotal role that education plays in relation to national development. Renewed government support for Education for Sustainable Development [ESD] has been evident in recent curriculum reform - The Executive will ensure that the new Curriculum for Excellence [CfE] integrates education for sustainable development across subject areas (Sustainable Development Education Liaison Group, 22-23rd August 2006). Few would query the importance and relevance of ESD, however, school approaches remain piece-meal and unco-ordinated (Sustainable Development Education Liaison Group [SDLG], 2006).