EcoFriends: Multicultural Service-Learning Communication for SDG 15 (Life on Land)

Hyunjun Cho

doi:10.37535/

Authors

Hyunjun Cho Kyungwoon University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37535/

Keywords:

service learning, multicultural education, SDGs 15, Sustainability education, higher education

Abstract

Environmental degradation and biodiversity loss require higher education to adopt pedagogical models that connect sustainability learning with real-world practice. This study proposes the EcoFriends Multicultural Service-Learning Model as a design-based conceptual framework for operationalizing Sustainable Development Goal 15 (Life on Land) in higher education. Developed through literature synthesis, model construction, theoretical benchmarking, and replicability guidelines, EcoFriends integrates four components: knowledge integration, campus-based environmental action, community engagement, and multicultural reflection and collaboration. The model contributes by (1) explicitly aligning service-learning with biodiversity-focused SDG 15 priorities, (2) operationalizing intercultural pedagogy through structured multicultural collaboration and reflection, and (3) framing sustainability education as a communicative and civic engagement process linking students, universities, and community partners. As a conceptual contribution, EcoFriends is modular, adaptable, and resource-efficient, offering practical guidance for institutions seeking to localize SDG 15 through inclusive and practice-oriented education.

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