Introduction to the Orbital Perspective from Coursera

The goals of this course are to develop the student’s critical thinking skills, global awareness, and ability to work as an integral part of a team in an increasingly complex global job market. The course provides a foundation in such skills as team building, collaboration, and elevated empathy using real-world scenarios from some of world’s most effective collaborative projects including the Earthrise-2068 Project.

Living on the International Space Station was a powerful, transformative experience—one that could hold the key to solving our problems here on Earth. On space walks and through windows, course instructor Ron Garan was struck by the stunning beauty of the Earth from space but sobered by knowing how much needed to be done to help this troubled planet. And yet on the International Space Station, Garan, a former fighter pilot, was working work side by side with Russians, who only a few years before were “the enemy.” If fifteen nations could collaborate on one of the most ambitious, technologically complicated undertakings in history, surely we can apply that kind of cooperation and innovation toward creating a better world.

In this course Garan will convey what it was like learning to work with a diverse group of people in an environment only a handful of human beings have ever known. But more importantly, the course will address how we can apply the orbital perspective here at home, embracing new partnerships and processes to promote peace and combat hunger, thirst, poverty, and environmental destruction. This course is a call to action for each of us to care for the most important space station of all: planet Earth.

The course will also involve participation in the Earthrise-2068 project. Working with people from around the world, students will help craft a vision of our future in the year 2068. Students will also help craft a crowdsource strategy for both the co-envisioned future of the world in 2068 and a roadmap to get there. Students will also participate in the crafting of a “call-to-action” to be delivered at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2017.

What's inside

Syllabus

The Orbital Perspective

In this first lesson the student will be introduced to the concept of the Orbital Perspective and given a glimpse to its implications for our global society.

Looking Skyward - Part 1

In this lesson the student will be introduced to the history leading up to the International Space Station (ISS) partnership and to some of the technical and cultural challenges that faced the partners in the early days of the International Space Station Program

Looking Skyward - Part II

How did we go from those early days of mistrust and suspicion to building and operating the International Space Station? What was the secret ingredient that enabled a coalition of fifteen nations to work together systematically, in a fully integrated manner, to construct and operate the most complex structure ever built in space? Is there something we can learn from how the members of the ISS program learned to overcome differences and cultural misunderstandings in order to accomplish remarkable things together? Can we use these same techniques to reach agreements on things such as alleviating poverty, mitigating climate change, or achieving peaceful solutions to long-term conflicts?”

Looking Earthward - Part I

In this lesson the instructor will share a profound shift in perspective experienced during his first space mission and take a deep dive into the meaning of the orbital perspective. We will also explore examples how taking an orbital perspective can affect our global society.

Looking Earthward - Part II

In this lesson we will explore the frameworks we use to construct our view of the world and the implications of taking on a conviction that we do not have to accept the suffering and conflict on our planet as inescapable. This lesson will also compare and contrast effective and ineffective forms of collaboration.

Looking Forward - Part I

In the third section of the course "Looking Forward", we will explore some of the many efforts to connect billions of minds and tap into our collective global genius. We will further examine the barriers to global collaboration and explore ways to break down those barriers. And we will hear some stories about amazing people who are building bridges to collaboration and making great strides toward overcoming our world’s biggest challenges. This lesson will also explore what factors led to success in a very high stakes situation. Participants will be exposed to some of the “perverse incentives” that limit the effectiveness of global humanitarian development and crisis response efforts. This lesson should lead to a discussion on how to better provide assistance worldwide.

Looking Forward - Part II

The exponential increase in collaborative technology is rapidly rewriting the way people and organizations interact. In this lesson we’ll look at several movements and initiatives that are synthesizing the orbital perspective and the worm’s eye view, making vast amounts of information accessible and bringing large groups of people together to work toward common causes. In some cases, collaboration is not facilitated by long-term personal relationships. Instead, the bond is the common cause, the shared experience, and in some cases simply being given the permission and means to help.

Call to Action - Part I

In these last three concluding lessons we will connect all the previous lessons into a specific “Call to Action”. Included in the call to action is a desire to spark a global conversation about the need to have a deeper level of collaboration toward solving the world’s toughest and most seemingly intractable problem. In the lesson participants will be exposed to some of the efforts that are rewriting the way humans interact on and off our planet.

Call to Action - Part II

This lesson will focus on methods to create an actual or virtual “Control Room of Spaceship Earth”.

Call to Action - Part III

This concluding lesson will focus on ways to continue the momentum that was created by the course and continue to propel the Earthrise-2068 project forward.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Appropriate for learners looking to develop critical thinking skills essential in the workforce

Teaches collaboration skills necessary for successful teamwork

Provides global awareness with a multi-national team of instructors in a global project

Taught by a former fighter pilot and NASA astronaut offering a unique perspective

Involves participation in a global project to craft a vision for the future

Provides tools for effective collaboration and highlights common pitfalls

Reviews summary

Enticing space idealism

Learners say Introduction to the Orbital Perspective is an idealistic and hopeful course that is engaging for many students. The course discusses the vision for space exploration and includes space shots and NASA footage. However, it is important to note that some learners report that classmates are not engaged and that getting assignment grades back can take a long time.

Course has space shots and NASA footage.

"Being an astronaut is a pretty good job so when they got to see the view of Earth from space out there it gave them ideas."

Course is idealistic and hopeful about space exploration.

"Hopeful, idealistic. I could see glimmerings of the Star Trek universe."

Whether or not the class is engaging can vary greatly.

"Only fantastic, if classmates really want to discuss and do some research."

Grading can be slow.

"It has been weeks and I can't get a grade!"

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 Introduction to the Orbital Perspective with these activities:

Practice building teams in online environments

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In the Orbital Perspective module, you will need to get up to speed with building teams in online environments as use of such environments is increasingly becoming widespread. Doing this in advance will help you to get the most out of the module.

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Create a list of online tools that can facilitate team collaboration, such as Google Docs, Trello, Slack, and Asana.
Practice using these tools to create and manage a project, and assign tasks to other collaborative members.
Reflect on the process and identify the challenges and rewards of collaborating online.

Review Working as Part of a Team

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Review the nuances of working together with a group towards a shared objective.

Browse courses on Teamwork

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Read one or two articles about the main factors of effective teamwork.
Form a study group with classmates to go over some sample scenarios.

Find Tutorials on Collaboration Methods

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Explore different approaches to working together to achieve common targets.

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Watch a few videos on different aspects of collaboration.
Experiment with some of the techniques in a low-stakes scenario.

Six other activities

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Scenarios on Collaboration and Compromise

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Work through a variety of simulated scenarios to practice your collaboration and compromise skills.

Browse courses on Problem Solving

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Read the scenario and identify the key issues.
Develop a plan for addressing the issues.
Role-play the scenario with a partner.
Discuss the results of the role-play and identify areas for improvement.

Help Craft a Collaborative Global Vision

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Contribute to the creation of a shared global vision for the future, focusing on collaboration and cooperation.

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Research different global challenges and opportunities.
Brainstorm ideas for how to address these challenges and opportunities through collaboration.
Develop a vision statement that articulates a shared future goal.
Create a roadmap for achieving the vision.

Discussion on the Importance of Collaboration

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Engage in discussions to understand the value of working together and the best practices to nurture successful collaboration.

Browse courses on Collaboration

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Read an article or watch a video about the importance of collaboration.
Join a discussion forum or online group to discuss the topic.
Share your own experiences and perspectives on collaboration.
Identify ways to improve your own collaboration skills.

Volunteer for a Project that Encourages Collaboration

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Experience the power of collaboration firsthand by contributing to a project that brings people together for a common cause.

Browse courses on Community Involvement

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Research different volunteer opportunities in your community.
Choose a project that you are passionate about and that aligns with the theme of collaboration.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Attend training or orientation sessions provided by the organization.
Work with other volunteers to achieve the project's goals.

Participate in a Collaboration-Based Competition

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Test your collaboration skills and knowledge in a competitive setting, where teams work together to solve a common challenge.

Browse courses on Collaboration

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Research different collaboration-based competitions.
Form a team with other students or professionals who share your interests and skills.
Develop a plan for how you will approach the competition.
Submit your proposal to the competition organizers.
If your proposal is accepted, participate in the competition and give it your best effort.

Develop a Presentation on the Benefits of Global Collaboration

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Share your knowledge and insights on the benefits of global collaboration by creating a compelling presentation.

Browse courses on Collaboration

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Research the benefits of global collaboration.
Organize your research into a logical flow.
Create a visually appealing presentation using slides, images, and videos.
Practice your presentation and get feedback from others.
Deliver your presentation to an audience.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to the Orbital Perspective will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Social Entrepreneur

Social Entrepreneurs use business principles to address social and environmental problems. They may start their own businesses or work with existing organizations. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as a Social Entrepreneur by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Entrepreneur

Urban Planner

Urban Planners design and plan cities and towns. They may work with organizations such as city governments, planning commissions, or private consulting firms. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as an Urban Planner by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and work to protect it from pollution and degradation. They may work with organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency or the National Park Service. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as an Environmental Scientist by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Nonprofit Manager

Nonprofit Managers plan, organize, and direct the activities of nonprofit organizations. They may work with organizations such as charities, foundations, or advocacy groups. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as a Nonprofit Manager by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Manager

Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability Consultants help organizations to reduce their environmental impact and improve their social and economic performance. They may work with organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as a Sustainability Consultant by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant

Public Policy Analyst

Public Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues and make recommendations to policymakers. They may work with organizations such as government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy groups. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as a Public Policy Analyst by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Policy Analyst

International Development Specialist

International Development Specialists work to improve the lives of people in developing countries. They may work with organizations such as the World Bank or the United Nations. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as an International Development Specialist by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for International Development Specialist

Humanitarian Aid Worker

Humanitarian Aid Workers provide immediate and long-term assistance to people affected by emergencies and natural disasters. They may work with organizations such as the United Nations or the Red Cross. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as a Humanitarian Aid Worker by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Humanitarian Aid Worker

Water Resource Manager

Water Resource Managers plan and manage water resources to ensure that there is enough water for all users. They may work with organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Army Corps of Engineers. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as a Water Resource Manager by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Water Resource Manager

Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law and work to protect the environment. They may work with organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as an Environmental Lawyer by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

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Disaster Relief Specialist

Disaster Relief Specialists provide assistance to people affected by natural disasters. They may work with organizations such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or the Red Cross. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as a Disaster Relief Specialist by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

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Peacebuilder

Peacebuilders work to prevent and resolve conflict and promote peace. They may work with organizations such as the United Nations or the International Committee of the Red Cross. This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as a Peacebuilder by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

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Renewable Energy Engineer

Renewable Energy Engineers design and develop renewable energy systems, such as solar and wind farms. The course may be helpful in preparing for a career as a Renewable Energy Engineer by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world’s current energy system. It may also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

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Climate Change Scientist

Climate Change Scientists study the causes and effects of climate change and work to develop solutions. They may work with organizations such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) or the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). This course may be helpful in preparing for a career as a Climate Change Scientist by providing a global perspective on the challenges facing the world today. It can also help develop skills in teamwork, collaboration, and empathy, which are essential for success in this field.

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