Teaching the “10 Rs” of circular economy in technological-level undergraduate courses offered in Brazil: an exploratory analysis via fuzzy TOPSIS class

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to provide an analysis of teaching the “10 Rs” – Refuse, Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Remodel, Remanufacture, Reuse, Recycle and Recover energy, in technological-level undergraduate courses offered in Brazil. Technological undergraduate courses are more dynamic and pragmatic than bachelor’s degrees and aim to meet market demand.

Design/methodology/approach

The study collected data from 39 educators who know the reality of technological-level undergraduate courses in Brazil. The data were analyzed using the fuzzy technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution class technique.

Findings

The main findings of the research show potential for improvement in teaching all the “Rs” analyzed when considering technological-level undergraduate courses. Refuse, Restore and Recover energy are the most critical when considering how they should be taught in undergraduate technology courses in Brazil.

Originality/value

The paper’s originality lies in a unique empirical analysis of the circular economy – which is increasingly emerging as an intriguing approach to seeking sustainability in production chains – and the new generation of professionals in technological undergraduate courses who need to be educated and aligned with these concepts. The results can improve the curriculum, syllabus, course objectives and learning outcomes, upgrading the courses’ pedagogical projects.

Citation

Favaro, R., Moraes, G.H.S.M.d., Sigahi, T.F.A.C., Pinto, J.d.S., Rampasso, I.S., Moro, S.R. and Anholon, R. (2024), "Teaching the “10 Rs” of circular economy in technological-level undergraduate courses offered in Brazil: an exploratory analysis via fuzzy TOPSIS class", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-03-2024-0218