# Collaborative Research: Research Initiation: Applying Systems Dynamics to Explore Faculty Motivation in Integrating Sustainability Concepts in Undergraduate Engineering Curriculum

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Rowan University (NJ) · $62,598

## Abstract

Training the nation’s engineers to understand the economic, environmental, and social context and long-term potential impacts of their work is key to fostering competitive technological innovation. Engineers increasingly face challenges that demand not only technical expertise, but also a deep understanding of how their decisions shape economic, environmental, and social outcomes, an awareness that is essential for advancing responsible innovation, earning public trust, and sustaining national leadership in a rapidly evolving global economy. Yet, despite their importance, these topics remain underrepresented in undergraduate engineering education. When addressed, they are often introduced through upper-level or graduate electives, limiting their reach to a relatively small number of students and restricting their depth of content to mostly introductory levels. Efforts to integrate these themes more broadly into required curricula have proven difficult, and past institutional initiatives have achieved only limited success. One reason for this persistent challenge is that academic change, particularly around curriculum and instruction, is a complex and dynamic process. Faculty, who play a central role in enacting change, operate within institutional systems shaped by competing demands, incentive structures, and cultural norms. Without a clear understanding of what motivates faculty to act, efforts to promote meaningful and lasting curricular innovation are unlikely to succeed. 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2508685
- **Awardee organization:** Rowan University (NJ)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** DMDEQP66JL85
- **PI:** Juan M Cruz
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** ENGINEERING EDUCATION, EDUCATION RESEARCH
- **Estimated total:** $62,598
- **Funds obligated:** $62,598
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2508685

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2508685, Collaborative Research: Research Initiation: Applying Systems Dynamics to Explore Faculty Motivation in Integrating Sustainability Concepts in Undergraduate Engineering Curriculum. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2508685. Licensed CC0.

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