Active learning ideas
The final topic in this unit shifts the focus to the future: how can business be a force for good? Students investigate Sustainable Development and Ethical Business practices, looking at the 'Triple Bottom Line', Profit, People, and Planet. They evaluate how Irish businesses are responding to the climate crisis and social inequality through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Activity 01
Groups choose a well-known Irish company and research their sustainability report. They must find one 'green' initiative the company is doing well and one area where they could improve, presenting their findings as a 'Report Card.'
What does it mean for a business to operate sustainably?
Activity 02
Assign a scenario where a company is accused of 'Greenwashing' (claiming to be eco-friendly when they aren't). Students act as the prosecution, defense, and jury, using evidence of the company's actual business practices.
How can businesses reduce their environmental impact?
Activity 03
Provide a scenario: a business can save 20% on costs by moving production to a factory with poor working conditions. Students individually decide what to do, then pair up to discuss how this choice would affect the company's reputation and long-term profit.
Why is corporate social responsibility important in modern business?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Being sustainable always makes a business less profitable.
While there may be upfront costs, sustainability often saves money in the long run through energy efficiency and increased customer loyalty. Using case studies of successful 'B-Corps' helps students see that ethics and profit can go hand-in-hand.
CSR is just about giving money to charity.
CSR is about *how* a business makes its money, not just how it spends it. It includes fair wages, sustainable sourcing, and reducing waste. A 'CSR Pyramid' activity helps students see the different layers of responsibility.
Methods used in this brief
International Trade and Ireland's Economy
Students explore the reasons for international trade and its significance to the Irish economy. They examine imports, exports, and calculate the balance of trade.
8 methodologies
The Impact of Globalisation
An analysis of globalisation and its effects on consumers, workers, and businesses. Students debate the positive and negative impacts of multinational companies operating in Ireland.
8 methodologies