LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® as a Tool for Reflective and Sustainable Learning in Optometry

This study examines the pedagogical potential of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP) in optometric education, aiming to foster critical reflection on optics, sustainability, and professional identity. A qualitative interpretative phenomenological analysis was conducted with 48 students from Optics and Optometry and Renewable Energies programs at ISEC Lisboa. Participants took part in LSP sessions focused on optics and sustainability, using metaphorical models to express their reflections. Data were collected via observations, group discussions, and open-ended questionnaires, and analyzed with Grounded Theory. In the optics theme, models revealed both scientific and symbolic views, with visual correction (46.7%), professional roles (21.3%), and perception (14.7%) being most frequent. Statistically significant differences appeared by academic background (p < 0.001) and experience (p = 0.0018): optometry students emphasized clinical roles, while environmental students highlighted perception. For sustainability, main categories included sustainable practices (41.7%), polluting industries (15.3%), ecological footprint (13.9%), and social responsibility (12.5%). Actions proposed included recycling, reuse, and biodegradable materials. Age was linked to action-oriented responses (p = 0.038), with no differences by gender or nationality. LSP emerged as an effective tool for deep reflection, interdisciplinary learning, and ethical engagement, supporting integration of sustainability and identity in technical education. Further research should explore its long-term educational impact.