You are currently viewing a new version of our website. To view the old version click .
Sustainability
  • This is an early access version, the complete PDF, HTML, and XML versions will be available soon.
  • Article
  • Open Access

19 November 2025

Developing Sustainability Problem-Solving Skills Through Internet of Things Projects

,
and
1
Faculty of Business and Management, University of Ruse Angel Kanchev, 7017 Ruse, Bulgaria
2
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Automatics, University of Ruse Angel Kanchev, 7017 Ruse, Bulgaria
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Sustainability Through Integrating the IoT into Education

Abstract

This article explores the potential of an integrated pedagogical approach that combines project-based learning (PBL) with Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Within the context of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), this model transforms students from passive consumers of information into active agents of change. The study demonstrates that leveraging IoT sensors enables students to tackle pressing and complex sustainability challenges by engaging them in a comprehensive problem-solving cycle—from collecting real-world data to developing innovative solutions. By analysing the existing scientific literature, the approach is shown to significantly improve critical thinking skills, systems thinking, creativity, and teamwork. The study also proposes a new conceptual framework (hypothesis), the EcoHabits model, whose effectiveness remains to be empirically validated. This model demonstrates IoT’s potential to enhance sustainability competencies, improve health literacy, and promote individual and collective behaviour change. Despite its significant pedagogical benefits, the article identifies key implementation challenges, including the need for adequate teacher training and community collaboration. In conclusion, this innovative framework offers a promising solution for preparing future generations to address global issues and become active, responsible citizens of the 21st century.

Article Metrics

Citations

Article Access Statistics

Multiple requests from the same IP address are counted as one view.