Food Systems and Food Access PBL

What is the global issue students are trying to tackle in this problem-based learning unit?

As the world transitions from the Global Pandemic, food insecurity and instability has become a more relevant conversation, even in the United States. How do we develop a more reliable and stable food system?

Worldwide, 8.9% of the population goes to bed hungry. In the United States, 3.9% of the population goes to bed hungry. On top of that, according to estimates compiled by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), by 2050 we will need to produce 60 percent more food to feed a growing world population of 9.3 billion. How can we come together to feed all the people on our planet?

Students will view this issue through four critical lenses.

Economic

How do income rates, GDP, poverty levels affect one's access to food? How much does a healthy diet cost?

Environmental

What are the impacts of different farming methods on the environment? How does the environment one lives in impact their ability to grow or obtain fresh produce?

Social

What is a community's role in feeding its people? How do cultural and demographic differences alter a community's access to food?

Policy

What is the government's role in providing aid to those that struggle with food insecurity? What policies have been put in place, or should be put in place, to protect or extend food access?

Instructional Material for PBL Educators