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Leidy Klotz
This course takes learners on a journey through a progression of systems-thinking and sustainability concepts. Using the beautiful game of soccer (also known as football in many parts of the world) as an analogy, we'll work together to illuminate real-world interdependencies (such as between climate change and human rights), building the chain of concepts in a fun, accessible way. Soccer/Football nerds and newbies alike will be entertained and, ultimately, rewarded with the epiphanies that come from seeing in systems more clearly.
Read more
This course takes learners on a journey through a progression of systems-thinking and sustainability concepts. Using the beautiful game of soccer (also known as football in many parts of the world) as an analogy, we'll work together to illuminate real-world interdependencies (such as between climate change and human rights), building the chain of concepts in a fun, accessible way. Soccer/Football nerds and newbies alike will be entertained and, ultimately, rewarded with the epiphanies that come from seeing in systems more clearly.
Read more
This course takes learners on a journey through a progression of systems-thinking and sustainability concepts. Using the beautiful game of soccer (also known as football in many parts of the world) as an analogy, we'll work together to illuminate real-world interdependencies (such as between climate change and human rights), building the chain of concepts in a fun, accessible way. Soccer/Football nerds and newbies alike will be entertained and, ultimately, rewarded with the epiphanies that come from seeing in systems more clearly.
Those who complete the course will: create examples of systems parts, boundaries, and behaviors related to sustainability (and soccer/football); practice evaluating the sustainability of systems they care about using several complementary methods; generate ideas to improve the sustainability of a system they care about; and explain a mindset shift that would enhance the sustainability of a system they care about.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/01arev/sustainability
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What's inside
Syllabus
Background and System Parts
This section explains who I am, why I'm using soccer as a metaphor, systems and reductionist thinking and sustainability. This section also outlines the main parts of a system (elements, flows, stocks, feedback loops, and purpose).
Read more
Syllabus
Background and System Parts
This section explains who I am, why I'm using soccer as a metaphor, systems and reductionist thinking and sustainability. This section also outlines the main parts of a system (elements, flows, stocks, feedback loops, and purpose).
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores sustainability and systems-thinking concepts through the metaphor of soccer, making it engaging and accessible to diverse audiences
Taught by Leidy Klotz, a renowned expert in sustainability and systems thinking
Develops a comprehensive understanding of sustainability and its interconnections with various domains
Suitable for both beginners and those seeking to strengthen their foundation in sustainability and systems thinking
Applies a practical approach to sustainability through exercises and examples, making it relatable to real-world applications
Includes interactive materials and hands-on exercises that enhance the learning experience and promote active engagement
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary
Sustainability and systems thinking via soccer
According to learners, this course is a highly creative and engaging way to learn about systems thinking, using the familiar analogy of soccer to explore complex sustainability concepts like climate change and human rights. Students found the lectures engaging and well-structured, making potentially abstract ideas accessible and easy to grasp for both those familiar with soccer and complete novices. The course is praised for its fresh perspective and practical application of systems thinking to real-world problems, fostering a mindset shift. While some might initially question the soccer link, reviews indicate it serves as a powerful and memorable framework. Overall, it's seen as an excellent introduction that encourages deeper thought.
Serves as an accessible starting point for topics.
"An excellent introductory course for anyone new to systems thinking or looking for a fresh perspective."
"Great starting point before diving into more complex systems dynamics."
"Very accessible for beginners with no prior knowledge of the subject matter."
"I felt this course gave me a solid foundation to build upon."
Encourages thinking about problems differently.
"The course really shifted how I think about interconnected problems and sustainability."
"It provides a new lens through which to view the world and its challenges."
"Definitely changed my perspective on tackling complex issues; systems thinking is powerful."
"I now find myself looking for the stocks, flows, and feedback loops everywhere!"
Instructors are engaging and make learning enjoyable.
"The instructors were engaging and clearly passionate about the subject matter."
"Lectures were well-paced and held my attention throughout the course."
"I really enjoyed the style of teaching; it made learning fun and approachable."
"Great job by the teaching team making complex topics accessible and interesting."
Systems thinking principles are explained effectively.
"The course provides a clear explanation of systems thinking principles and their application to sustainability."
"Excellent introduction to systems thinking, explaining the components and dynamics in a straightforward manner."
"I found the explanation of stocks, flows, and feedback loops particularly helpful and clear."
"This course made the often abstract ideas of systems thinking very concrete and understandable."
Connects systems thinking directly to sustainability.
"Brilliant application of systems thinking to real-world sustainability challenges."
"Helped me see the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic aspects of sustainability."
"The connection between systems thinking and sustainability issues like climate change was very well made."
"Gained valuable insights into how to approach complex sustainability problems from a systems perspective."
Uses soccer as a unique way to teach complex ideas.
"Using soccer as the metaphor worked well to introduce the concepts of systems thinking in an understandable way."
"The way soccer was used to help explain systems thinking and sustainability was surprisingly effective."
"A really creative and engaging approach using soccer to explain systems thinking - who knew!"
"Never thought I'd learn about sustainability through football, but the analogy was brilliant and made it so much more interesting."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Sustainability through Soccer: Systems-Thinking in Action with these
activities:
Read a Book on Systems Thinking
Show steps
Exploring a foundational text on systems thinking can provide a deeper understanding of its principles and applications.
View
I limiti alla crescita. Rapporto del System...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of the book 'Thinking in Systems: A Primer' or other recommended texts on systems thinking
-
Read and study the book, taking notes on key concepts, frameworks, and case studies
-
Reflect on how the book's insights relate to the course materials and your understanding of systems
Review Systems Vocabulary
Show steps
Reviewing key terms and concepts will help you build a strong foundation for the course.
Browse courses on
Systems Theory
Show steps
-
Identify key terms and concepts related to sustainability and systems theory
-
Create a glossary or flashcards to aid memorization
-
Review your notes or textbooks for a refresher on these concepts
Participate in Discussion Groups
Show steps
Engaging with peers can help you clarify your understanding, gain diverse perspectives, and learn from others' experiences.
Show steps
-
Join online discussion groups or forums related to systems thinking and sustainability
-
Actively participate in discussions by sharing your insights, asking questions, and providing feedback to others
-
Reflect on the discussions and how they contribute to your understanding of course concepts
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore Interactive Simulations
Show steps
Working through interactive simulations can help you visualize and understand the dynamics of complex systems.
Browse courses on
Systems Dynamics
Show steps
-
Identify reputable sources for interactive simulations related to systems theory and sustainability
-
Run simulations and experiment with different variables to observe system behavior
-
Analyze the results and draw insights about the interconnectedness and feedback loops within systems
Develop a Systems Map
Show steps
Creating a visual representation of a system can help you identify its components, boundaries, and relationships.
Show steps
-
Choose a system that interests you and gather information about its elements, interactions, and purpose
-
Use a diagramming tool or software to create a visual representation of the system
-
Identify and label the system's components, boundaries, flows, and feedback loops
-
Analyze the map to identify areas of complexity, interdependence, and potential leverage points
Analyze Case Studies
Show steps
Examining real-world examples can help you apply systems thinking concepts to practical scenarios.
Browse courses on
Case Studies
Show steps
-
Identify case studies that demonstrate different aspects of systems thinking and sustainability
-
Read or review the case studies and identify the key issues, stakeholders, and interdependencies involved
-
Analyze the case studies using systems thinking tools and frameworks
-
Develop recommendations for addressing the challenges and improving sustainability outcomes
Contribute to Open-Source Projects
Show steps
Participating in open-source projects allows you to apply your systems thinking skills in a practical setting.
Browse courses on
Open-Source Software
Show steps
-
Identify open-source projects related to sustainability or systems thinking
-
Review the project's codebase and documentation
-
Identify areas where you can contribute your knowledge and skills
-
Submit pull requests or collaborate with the project team to improve the software
Read a Book on Systems Thinking
Show steps
Exploring a foundational text on systems thinking can provide a deeper understanding of its principles and applications.
View
I limiti alla crescita. Rapporto del System...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of the book 'Thinking in Systems: A Primer' or other recommended texts on systems thinking
- Read and study the book, taking notes on key concepts, frameworks, and case studies
- Reflect on how the book's insights relate to the course materials and your understanding of systems
Review Systems Vocabulary
Show steps
Reviewing key terms and concepts will help you build a strong foundation for the course.
Browse courses on
Systems Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify key terms and concepts related to sustainability and systems theory
- Create a glossary or flashcards to aid memorization
- Review your notes or textbooks for a refresher on these concepts
Participate in Discussion Groups
Show steps
Engaging with peers can help you clarify your understanding, gain diverse perspectives, and learn from others' experiences.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join online discussion groups or forums related to systems thinking and sustainability
- Actively participate in discussions by sharing your insights, asking questions, and providing feedback to others
- Reflect on the discussions and how they contribute to your understanding of course concepts
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore Interactive Simulations
Show steps
Working through interactive simulations can help you visualize and understand the dynamics of complex systems.
Browse courses on
Systems Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reputable sources for interactive simulations related to systems theory and sustainability
- Run simulations and experiment with different variables to observe system behavior
- Analyze the results and draw insights about the interconnectedness and feedback loops within systems
Develop a Systems Map
Show steps
Creating a visual representation of a system can help you identify its components, boundaries, and relationships.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a system that interests you and gather information about its elements, interactions, and purpose
- Use a diagramming tool or software to create a visual representation of the system
- Identify and label the system's components, boundaries, flows, and feedback loops
- Analyze the map to identify areas of complexity, interdependence, and potential leverage points
Analyze Case Studies
Show steps
Examining real-world examples can help you apply systems thinking concepts to practical scenarios.
Browse courses on
Case Studies
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify case studies that demonstrate different aspects of systems thinking and sustainability
- Read or review the case studies and identify the key issues, stakeholders, and interdependencies involved
- Analyze the case studies using systems thinking tools and frameworks
- Develop recommendations for addressing the challenges and improving sustainability outcomes
Contribute to Open-Source Projects
Show steps
Participating in open-source projects allows you to apply your systems thinking skills in a practical setting.
Browse courses on
Open-Source Software
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify open-source projects related to sustainability or systems thinking
- Review the project's codebase and documentation
- Identify areas where you can contribute your knowledge and skills
- Submit pull requests or collaborate with the project team to improve the software
Career center
Learners who complete Sustainability through Soccer: Systems-Thinking in Action will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
As an Environmental Scientist, you will get the opportunity to study multiple aspects of the natural world, including its human and physical influences. This course, by examining sustainability through systems-thinking and using soccer as an analogy, will help build a foundation for the complex, interconnected factors related to ecosystems that you will deal with on a daily basis. You will gain experience in evaluating sustainability, considering the behaviors, and creating sustainable systems that will prove invaluable in your role.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
This course will prepare you for a career as a Sustainability Consultant, where you will be responsible for increasing resource efficiency, devising resource conservation schemes, and promoting environmental awareness to promote sustainable development and protect the environment. The course's focus on systems-thinking and sustainability, along with the use of soccer as an engaging analogy, will help you understand the complex interdependencies and challenges you will encounter in this role.
Environmental Compliance Manager
Environmental Compliance Manager
This course will provide you with a strong foundation for your future role as an Environmental Compliance Manager, where you will oversee adherence to regulations and standards to protect and conserve the environment. The course's comprehensive coverage of sustainability concepts, paired with its use of soccer as an analogy, will equip you with the systems-thinking and analytical skills necessary to navigate the complex regulations and environmental issues you will encounter in this role.
Climate Change Analyst
Climate Change Analyst
In the role of Climate Change Analyst, you will play a crucial role in analyzing climate change data, assessing its impacts, and developing strategies to mitigate its effects. This course will provide you with the foundational knowledge of systems-thinking and sustainability, using soccer as an analogy to illustrate the complex interdependencies and behaviors of climate systems. By understanding these concepts, you will be better equipped to tackle the challenges and make informed decisions in this field.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
As an Environmental Engineer, you will be responsible for designing and implementing solutions to environmental problems, such as pollution control and waste management. This course will help you develop the systems-thinking skills necessary to understand the complex interactions within ecosystems and the impacts of human activities on the environment. By using soccer as an analogy, the course makes these concepts relatable and engaging, enhancing your ability to develop sustainable and effective solutions.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Manager
This course offers valuable insights into the principles and practices of sustainability, which will serve you well in your role as a Sustainability Manager. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of systems-thinking and sustainability, using soccer as an analogy to make these concepts more accessible and relatable. This knowledge will empower you to drive sustainability initiatives, manage environmental programs, and promote responsible business practices within your organization.
Environmental Policy Analyst
Environmental Policy Analyst
As an Environmental Policy Analyst, you will be involved in developing and analyzing environmental policies to address issues such as climate change, pollution, and resource conservation. This course will provide you with the systems-thinking framework and sustainability principles you need to understand the complex interactions between human activities and the environment. By using soccer as an analogy, the course makes these concepts tangible and engaging, enhancing your ability to contribute to effective policymaking.
Corporate Social Responsibility Officer
Corporate Social Responsibility Officer
This course will provide you with a strong foundation for your future role as a Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, where you will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to improve the social and environmental performance of organizations. The course's focus on systems-thinking and sustainability, along with the use of soccer as an analogy, will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complex challenges and make informed decisions in this field.
Environmental Planner
Environmental Planner
In your role as an Environmental Planner, you will be involved in developing and implementing plans to protect and manage natural resources, such as land, water, and wildlife. This course will provide you with a solid understanding of systems-thinking and sustainability, using soccer as an analogy to highlight the interconnectedness of environmental issues. By grasping these concepts, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions and develop effective plans that balance environmental conservation with social and economic needs.
Natural Resource Manager
Natural Resource Manager
As a Natural Resource Manager, you will be responsible for managing and protecting natural resources, such as forests, water, and minerals. This course will provide you with the systems-thinking skills necessary to understand the complex interactions within ecosystems and the impacts of human activities on the environment. By using soccer as an analogy, the course makes these concepts relatable and engaging, enhancing your ability to make informed decisions and implement sustainable management practices.
Environmental Activist
Environmental Activist
This course may be useful to you as an Environmental Activist, where you will be involved in advocating for environmental protection and sustainability. The course's emphasis on systems-thinking and sustainability, using soccer as an analogy, will provide you with a deeper understanding of the complex interdependencies and challenges facing the environment. This knowledge will empower you to develop effective strategies, engage with stakeholders, and mobilize support for environmental causes.
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
This course may be useful to you as a Science Teacher, where you will be responsible for educating students about science and its applications. The course's focus on systems-thinking and sustainability, using soccer as an analogy, will provide you with a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of natural systems and the impact of human activities on the environment. This knowledge will enable you to effectively teach science concepts and inspire your students to become environmentally conscious citizens.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
This course may be useful to you as an Environmental Lawyer, where you will be involved in legal cases related to environmental protection and sustainability. The course's focus on systems-thinking and sustainability, using soccer as an analogy, will provide you with a deeper understanding of the complex interdependencies and challenges facing the environment. This knowledge will empower you to effectively represent clients, advocate for environmental protection, and contribute to the development of environmental law.
Journalist
Journalist
This course may be useful to you as a Journalist, where you will be responsible for reporting on news and events related to environmental protection and sustainability. The course's focus on systems-thinking and sustainability, using soccer as an analogy, will provide you with a deeper understanding of the complex interdependencies and challenges facing the environment. This knowledge will enable you to accurately and effectively communicate environmental issues to the public, raising awareness and promoting informed decision-making.
Policy Advisor
Policy Advisor
This course may be useful to you as a Policy Advisor, where you will be involved in developing and advising on policies related to environmental protection and sustainability. The course's focus on systems-thinking and sustainability, using soccer as an analogy, will provide you with a deeper understanding of the complex interdependencies and challenges facing the environment. This knowledge will empower you to effectively advise policymakers, shape environmental policies, and contribute to sustainable development.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/01arev/sustainability
Reading list
We've selected nine books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Sustainability through Soccer: Systems-Thinking in Action.
Save
Provides a foundation in systems thinking, a critical skill for understanding sustainability issues. Through clear explanations and examples, it helps readers grasp the principles of systems thinking and apply them to real-world problems.
An introductory text that explores sustainability from a systems perspective, providing an understanding of the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic systems.
Save
A sweeping history of soccer from its origins to the modern era, exploring its cultural, social, and political significance around the world.
A data-driven analysis of the factors contributing to success in soccer, drawing on case studies from around the world.
Save
A comprehensive and engaging history of soccer, tracing its origins and evolution across the globe.
Save
This novel uses a manufacturing setting to illustrate the principles of systems thinking and continuous improvement. Through its engaging story, it demonstrates how to identify and eliminate bottlenecks and optimize systems for sustainability.
Save
This influential book argues for the economic benefits of sustainability, presenting a compelling case for investing in renewable energy, resource efficiency, and ecosystem restoration.
Examines the impacts of climate change on sports, including the effects on player health, venue design, and event planning.
Save
Provides a comprehensive analysis of the environmental impacts of sports, offering insights into the carbon footprint of major sporting events and the sustainability of sports facilities.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/01arev/sustainability
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Effort
6 modules, 2-3 hours/module
Level
Introductory
Via
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Institution
University of Virginia
Instructor
Leidy Klotz
Language
English
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