The Understanding Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) module provides a introductory overview of the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted by all UN Member States in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030.

This module introduces learners to the background and significance of the SDGs, exploring the historical context that led to their formulation and the overarching framework they provide for addressing global challenges in a holistic and integrated manner. Through engaging multimedia content, case studies, and interactive exercises, participants will gain a nuanced understanding of each of the 17 goals, their interlinkages, and the indicators used to measure progress.

Key topics covered in this module include:

1. Introduction to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Overview of the 17 goals and their targets, emphasizing the interconnected nature of social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainability.

2. History and Evolution of the SDGs: Exploration of the historical context leading to the adoption of the SDGs, including the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the Rio+20 Conference, and the participatory process involving governments, civil society, and other communities of interest.

3. Goal-specific Analysis: In-depth examination of each SDG, including poverty eradication, zero hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industry, innovation, and infrastructure, reduced inequalities, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life below water, life on land, peace, justice, and strong institutions, and partnerships for the goals.

4. Cross-cutting Themes and Interlinkages: Exploration of cross-cutting themes such as gender equality, human rights, and environmental sustainability, and analysis of interlinkages between different goals and targets.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Introduction to the global indicators framework for tracking progress on the SDGs, including data collection, monitoring mechanisms, and challenges in assessing progress at the national and global levels.

6. Implementing the SDGs: Examination of strategies for implementing the SDGs at various levels, including national governments, local communities, businesses, and civil society organizations, with a focus on policy coherence, stakeholder engagement, and financing for sustainable development.

Throughout the module, learners will be encouraged to critically reflect on the opportunities and challenges associated with achieving the SDGs, considering diverse perspectives and innovative approaches for advancing sustainable development in the context of a rapidly changing world.

By the end of the module, participants will have developed a holistic understanding of the SDGs and their role in addressing pressing global challenges, equipped with the knowledge and tools to contribute to the implementation of sustainable development initiatives in their own communities and beyond.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the significance and scope of the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including their historical context, overarching objectives, and the interconnected nature of social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainability.

2. Analyze and evaluate each of the 17 SDGs in depth, identifying key targets, indicators, and cross-cutting themes, and critically assessing the challenges and opportunities associated with their implementation at local, national, and global levels.

3. Develop practical skills and strategies for contributing to the achievement of the SDGs, including stakeholder engagement, policy advocacy, and innovative approaches to addressing complex sustainability challenges, with a focus on promoting inclusive and sustainable development in diverse cultural, economic, and geographic contexts.
   
   Module Developers: Abby Horton, EdD, RN, CHC, CLC, Assistant Professor at The University of Alabama’s Capstone College of Nursing and
   Wendy Thal, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PHNA-BC, FAANP, Professor at Texas Tech University