Experiencing Planetary Health through the Setting Approach in Education: Developing and Anchoring Sustainable Health Promotion Regionally

The project «Experiencing Planetary Health through the Setting Approach in higher Education» aims to develop a cross-border teaching concept to strengthen health promotion and sustainable development in the Four-Country Region. In response to complex global challenges such as climate change, migration, pollution, and increasing mental health issues, the project seeks to systemically address ecological, social, and economic aspects of health. The focus is on applying health and design expertise in real-world settings (e.g., schools, hospitals, communities) to anchor regional health promotion. Students and lecturers work together in mini projects with regional practice partners to develop practical proposals or initial solutions and reflect on these together. The setting approach enables a participatory, inclusive methodology that is supplemented by design thinking. This promotes social participation and ensures transfer to the region and the participants' own living environment. Knowledge is transferred via workshops, online platforms, and a future workshop.

Project Lead

ZHAW: Prof. Dr. Andrea Glässel
HFU: Prof. Dr. Nicole Weydmann, Prof. Dr. Christian Weidmann
ZHdK: Prof. Dr. Anna Lisa Martin-Niedecken
UZH: Prof. Dr. med. Dr. phil. Nikola Biller-Andorno

Team

Verena Biehl, Dr. Birgit Ulrika Keller, Julienne Rüeger, Angelika Echsel

Cooperation

Public Health Switzerland, Office of Health Thurgau, Head of Health Promotion

Duration

06.2024 – 12.2025

Funding

Scientific Consortium of the Four-Lake Region of Lake Constance with funding from the Interreg VI Alpenrhein-Bodensee-Hochrhein program

More Information

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