Education for Sustainability

Course Structure

This is a one-year, part time Action Research programme. Through practical examples, theory and creative processes, participants will have the opportunity to explore ideas in a dynamic learning environment. The part time structure enables participants to experiment with, reflect on, and document their learning in between sessions, and to integrate the work into their professional and personal practice. There is support and feedback from the certificate tutors and peers during the intervals.

Activities include: Lectures, seminars and workshops; tutorials; group process work; experiential exercises; site visits; self-organised activities; work groups, social time, meditation and physical exercise, plus facilitated and independent distance learning.

Peer learning is a central part of the programme, during and between modules. There will also be opportunities for participants to offer presentations / sessions for each other during the course.

Modules

During each module, we will explore a particular theme or aspect of Education for Sustainability, interwoven with time in mentor groups, sign-up tutorial options with various teachers, space for the group to self organize and the ongoing rhythm of living in community while at Schumacher College.

The programme culminates with each participant presenting a proposal for their future work so will be of interest to anyone wishing to change or deepen their current practice; to develop a new educational establishment or as support during transition to a new career path in the field.

Projects and Submissions

There will be 4 written projects/ reports to be submitted. There are 3 initial shorter projects of 3- 4,000 words or equivalent (to be arranged with mentor) with various format options, for example: theoretical, experimental, performative, personal narrative or project report, plus a final major assignment with a visual presentation of the participant's professional proposal, for example: outline of new project or plan for changes in current professional practice.

At the end of each module, participants will design a personal assignment with the support of their mentor and mentor group, in relation to their own inquiry and practice. The research and completion of this may involve traditional research, for example through books and interviews, it may be a piece of creative or experimental work, for example personal storytelling, or a report of a project or action designed in response to the course so far. These assignments are designed to support the individual learning journey and may be focused on practising a skill, or on challenging a learning edge towards personal and professional growth.

Feedback

Project work is not formally assessed in terms of marks. Thorough qualitative feedback - from staff and peers - is given on personal and professional development, addressing criteria such as action, reflection, ideas and inquiry. These criteria are applied to both content of projects, and to your inquiry into your own learning processes.