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Paths to a Sustainable Future
European University For Transition
European University For Transition
This MOOC is an introduction to social and ecological transition.
Ecological issues (climate change, loss in biodiversity, scarcity of resources, etc.) and their
Read more
This MOOC is an introduction to social and ecological transition.
Ecological issues (climate change, loss in biodiversity, scarcity of resources, etc.) and their
Read more
This MOOC is an introduction to social and ecological transition.
Ecological issues (climate change, loss in biodiversity, scarcity of resources, etc.) and their
social consequences (growing inequalities, poverty, conflicts, forced migrations, etc.) call
upon us to promote a paradigm shift, to redesign our production and consumption patterns,
as well as our lifestyles. This is what transition is all about.
In this MOOC, you will encounter some of the changes needed for transition at different
levels: worldviews (political), systems (the economy, management...) and lifestyles (at
personal and community levels). Following the MOOC will help change your way of thinking
or living, as well as to transform the structures of society. You will learn about possible
existing solutions, and also see that new solutions need to be invented. This MOOC will also
highlight the importance of working with others.
Anyone can follow the course, without prerequisites. If you already have some knowledge of
the topic, it will allow you to discover a number of approaches to transition and strengthen
your understanding of both challenges and ideas for change.
This MOOC was developed by the European University For Transition Erasmus + project.
The European University for Transition (EU4TRANSITION) Erasmus + project developed innovative learning and research practices (e.g. new curricula, teaching methods, institutional network) to accompany the transition in the education field. It developed multidisciplinary, pragmatic and holistic approaches for teaching and learning in the field of « Transitions » and facilitate the exchanges, flows and co-creation of knowledge and, more specifically, skills.
Partners were: ESSEC BUSINESS SCHOOL, UNIVERSITEIT VOOR HUMANISTIEK, UNIVERSIDAD PONTIFICIA COMILLAS, ARTERRA BIZIMODU, YASAR UNIVERSITESI, MTÜ EESTI ÖKOKOGUKONDADE ÜHENDUS and CAMPUS DE LA TRANSITION.
More information at: https://eu-4-transition.essec.edu/home
This project has received funding from Erasmus Plus under grant agreement N°2020-1-FR01-KA203-080465.
Disclaimer: the European Commission’s support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/5hgk45/paths
What's inside
Syllabus
An Introduction to Social and Ecological Transition
Welcome to this MOOC on transition! The MOOC was designed as follows: 1) A first module to address challenges at the level of worldviews: a worldview is apolitical vision of the future. 2) A second module to address the social implications of transitions in diverse fieldssuch as the economy, business, accounting, etc… 3) A third module to address the practical implications of transitions in our daily lives: wecalled this module “Tools for Transition”. Of course, all aspects of ecological and social transition will not be covered in this MOOC: we have selected some topics to illustrate the three levels mentioned above. This will not say everything about transition, but the MOOC will illustrate these three levels. Before starting, let us make a statement of principle: transition calls for philosophical andpolitical debates, leaving space for different sensitivities and priorities. This MOOC was built by a group of partners from diverse institutions: universities and eco-villages. In this MOOC, each contributor will speak in his own name. Even if all the contributors agree on the seriousness and urgency of the ecological situation, and the need to change unsustainable lifestyles, they may differ concerning the means to be taken to achieve it. This MOOC will help you raise your awareness of this diversity; it will help you understand the debates atstake and, ultimately, develop your ability to build your own personal critical thinking. We wish you all the best for this journey into the social and ecological transition!
Read more
Syllabus
An Introduction to Social and Ecological Transition
Welcome to this MOOC on transition! The MOOC was designed as follows: 1) A first module to address challenges at the level of worldviews: a worldview is apolitical vision of the future. 2) A second module to address the social implications of transitions in diverse fieldssuch as the economy, business, accounting, etc… 3) A third module to address the practical implications of transitions in our daily lives: wecalled this module “Tools for Transition”. Of course, all aspects of ecological and social transition will not be covered in this MOOC: we have selected some topics to illustrate the three levels mentioned above. This will not say everything about transition, but the MOOC will illustrate these three levels. Before starting, let us make a statement of principle: transition calls for philosophical andpolitical debates, leaving space for different sensitivities and priorities. This MOOC was built by a group of partners from diverse institutions: universities and eco-villages. In this MOOC, each contributor will speak in his own name. Even if all the contributors agree on the seriousness and urgency of the ecological situation, and the need to change unsustainable lifestyles, they may differ concerning the means to be taken to achieve it. This MOOC will help you raise your awareness of this diversity; it will help you understand the debates atstake and, ultimately, develop your ability to build your own personal critical thinking. We wish you all the best for this journey into the social and ecological transition!
Read more
New Worldviews related to transition
Welcome to the first module called “New Worldviews Related to Transition”. We will show how important worldviews are in shaping the way we build the future.
Social Implications of transitions
Welcome to this module on the social implications of transition. By “social” we mean the structures of society, which can be described either as “fields” such as the economy,management, law and public policy, or as organizations such as private companies, public administrations or regulatory bodies. In this module, we will focus on the fields of management and the economy, as well as on private companies.
Tools for Transition
After a module on the political level of worldviews, and a module on the structural level of the social implications of transition, we will now move to the level of daily life at the level of individuals and groups. We called this module “Tools for Transition”.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Explores political worldviews that shape visions of the future
Examines the social implications of transitions in fields like economy, management, and business
Provides tools and strategies for implementing transitions in daily life
Created through the European University For Transition Erasmus + project, an initiative focused on developing innovative learning practices for sustainability transitions
Suitable for learners interested in social and ecological transitions, regardless of prior knowledge or experience
May require additional research or consultation for learners seeking in-depth knowledge or specialized skills in specific transition-related fields
Save this course
Save Paths to a Sustainable Future to your list so you can find it easily later:
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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 Paths to a Sustainable Future with these
activities:
Join a study group or discussion forum on social and ecological transition
Show steps
This activity will allow you to connect with other learners and exchange ideas about social and ecological transition.
Show steps
-
Find a study group or discussion forum that interests you.
-
Introduce yourself and share your interests.
-
Participate in discussions and ask questions.
-
Share resources and information with other members.
Read Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Show steps
This book explores the interconnectedness of all living things and provides a unique perspective on the environment that can help you better understand the social and ecological transition.
View
The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book slowly and thoughtfully.
-
Take notes on the main themes and ideas.
-
Reflect on how the book's message relates to your own life and experiences.
Complete the Coursera course 'An Introduction to Social and Ecological Transition'
Show steps
This course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with social and ecological transition.
Show steps
-
Sign up for the course and complete the introductory module.
-
Watch all of the video lectures.
-
Complete all of the quizzes and assignments.
-
Participate in the discussion forums.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Read 'The End of Nature' by Bill McKibben
Show steps
This book provides a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of human activity on the natural world, helping you understand the urgency of social and ecological transition.
View
The Best American Science and Nature Writing...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book slowly and thoughtfully.
-
Take notes on the main themes and ideas.
-
Reflect on how the book's message relates to your own life and experiences.
Attend a workshop or conference on social and ecological transition
Show steps
This activity will allow you to learn from experts in the field of social and ecological transition.
Show steps
-
Find a workshop or conference that interests you.
-
Register for the event and make travel arrangements.
-
Attend the event and take notes on the presentations.
-
Follow up with the speakers and other attendees.
Write a blog post or article on a topic related to social and ecological transition
Show steps
This activity will allow you to synthesize your knowledge of social and ecological transition and share it with others.
Show steps
-
Choose a topic that you are interested in.
-
Research your topic thoroughly.
-
Write a clear and concise blog post or article.
-
Promote your blog post or article on social media.
Volunteer for an organization that is working to promote social and ecological transition
Show steps
This activity will allow you to gain practical experience in the field of social and ecological transition.
Show steps
-
Find an organization that interests you.
-
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Complete the necessary training and orientation.
-
Volunteer your time and make a difference.
Start a project that addresses a real-world problem related to social and ecological transition
Show steps
This activity will allow you to apply your knowledge of social and ecological transition to make a real-world impact.
Show steps
-
Identify a problem that you are passionate about.
-
Research the problem and develop a solution.
-
Implement your solution and track your results.
-
Share your project with others.
Join a study group or discussion forum on social and ecological transition
Show steps
This activity will allow you to connect with other learners and exchange ideas about social and ecological transition.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or discussion forum that interests you.
- Introduce yourself and share your interests.
- Participate in discussions and ask questions.
- Share resources and information with other members.
Read Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Show steps
This book explores the interconnectedness of all living things and provides a unique perspective on the environment that can help you better understand the social and ecological transition.
View
The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book slowly and thoughtfully.
- Take notes on the main themes and ideas.
- Reflect on how the book's message relates to your own life and experiences.
Complete the Coursera course 'An Introduction to Social and Ecological Transition'
Show steps
This course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with social and ecological transition.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Sign up for the course and complete the introductory module.
- Watch all of the video lectures.
- Complete all of the quizzes and assignments.
- Participate in the discussion forums.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Read 'The End of Nature' by Bill McKibben
Show steps
This book provides a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of human activity on the natural world, helping you understand the urgency of social and ecological transition.
View
The Best American Science and Nature Writing...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book slowly and thoughtfully.
- Take notes on the main themes and ideas.
- Reflect on how the book's message relates to your own life and experiences.
Attend a workshop or conference on social and ecological transition
Show steps
This activity will allow you to learn from experts in the field of social and ecological transition.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a workshop or conference that interests you.
- Register for the event and make travel arrangements.
- Attend the event and take notes on the presentations.
- Follow up with the speakers and other attendees.
Write a blog post or article on a topic related to social and ecological transition
Show steps
This activity will allow you to synthesize your knowledge of social and ecological transition and share it with others.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic that you are interested in.
- Research your topic thoroughly.
- Write a clear and concise blog post or article.
- Promote your blog post or article on social media.
Volunteer for an organization that is working to promote social and ecological transition
Show steps
This activity will allow you to gain practical experience in the field of social and ecological transition.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find an organization that interests you.
- Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Complete the necessary training and orientation.
- Volunteer your time and make a difference.
Start a project that addresses a real-world problem related to social and ecological transition
Show steps
This activity will allow you to apply your knowledge of social and ecological transition to make a real-world impact.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a problem that you are passionate about.
- Research the problem and develop a solution.
- Implement your solution and track your results.
- Share your project with others.
Career center
Learners who complete Paths to a Sustainable Future will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They work to protect the environment from pollution and degradation, and they develop technologies to improve environmental quality. This course will help you understand the engineering principles behind environmental protection, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and work to protect it from pollution and degradation. They conduct research, develop policies, and implement programs to improve environmental quality. This course will help you understand the science behind environmental issues, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants help organizations of all types to meet their environmental, social, and economic goals. They assess the sustainability of an organization's products, services, and operations, and develop and implement strategies to improve the organization's sustainability performance. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of sustainability, and it will help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Sustainability Policy Analyst
Sustainability Policy Analyst
Sustainability Policy Analysts develop and analyze policies to promote sustainability. They work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, and businesses. This course will help you understand the policy-making process, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Environmental Educator
Environmental Educator
Environmental Educators teach people about the environment and environmental issues. They work in schools, museums, and other settings to promote environmental awareness and stewardship. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate system and work to understand the causes and effects of climate change. They develop models to predict future climate change, and they work to develop strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change. This course will help you understand the science behind climate change, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law. They work to protect the environment from pollution and degradation, and they represent clients in environmental lawsuits. This course will help you understand the legal framework for environmental protection, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientists work to protect and restore endangered species and habitats. They conduct research, develop conservation plans, and implement conservation programs. This course will help you understand the principles of conservation biology, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Environmental Economist
Environmental Economist
Environmental Economists study the economic aspects of environmental issues. They develop policies and programs to promote sustainable economic development. This course will help you understand the principles of environmental economics, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Environmental Health Specialist
Environmental Health Specialist
Environmental Health Specialists work to protect public health from environmental hazards. They conduct research, develop policies, and implement programs to improve environmental health. This course will help you understand the principles of environmental health, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Renewable Energy Engineer
Renewable Energy Engineer
Renewable Energy Engineers design and implement renewable energy systems. They work to develop new technologies to harness renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. This course will help you understand the engineering principles behind renewable energy, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Green Building Architect
Green Building Architect
Green Building Architects design and build sustainable buildings. They work to reduce the environmental impact of buildings, and they promote the use of sustainable building materials and practices. This course will help you understand the principles of green building, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Ecotourism Manager
Ecotourism Manager
Ecotourism Managers develop and implement ecotourism programs. They work to promote sustainable tourism practices and to protect the environment. This course will help you understand the principles of ecotourism, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Sustainable Development Officer
Sustainable Development Officer
Sustainable Development Officers work to promote sustainable development in communities and regions. They develop and implement programs to improve the economic, social, and environmental well-being of communities. This course will help you understand the principles of sustainable development, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Sustainable Business Manager
Sustainable Business Manager
Sustainable Business Managers develop and implement sustainability strategies for businesses. They work to reduce the environmental impact of business operations, and they promote social and economic sustainability. This course will help you understand the principles of sustainable business, and it will provide you with the skills you need to be successful in this field.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/5hgk45/paths
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
Paths to a Sustainable Future.
This popular book introduced the concept of Transition Towns, an international movement that helps communities plan for a future beyond oil dependence and climate change. It provides inspiring examples and practical advice for creating resilient local economies, food systems, and energy solutions.
Save
This influential book presents a new economic model that prioritizes human well-being and planetary health. It offers a framework for thinking about sustainability and social justice in the 21st century.
This Pulitzer Prize-winning book provides a comprehensive and sobering account of the current extinction crisis. It offers a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting biodiversity and taking action to mitigate climate change.
This classic book examines the factors that lead to the collapse of societies. It offers insights into the challenges facing our own civilization and provides lessons for how we can avoid a similar fate.
Save
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the interconnected stories of nine people whose lives are shaped by trees. It offers a lyrical and thought-provoking meditation on the importance of nature and the need to protect our forests.
Save
Presents a comprehensive plan for reversing global warming. It identifies 100 specific solutions and provides detailed analysis of their potential impact.
This classic book was one of the first to sound the alarm about climate change. It offers a powerful and moving account of the ways in which human activities are altering the natural world.
Save
Offers a hopeful and inspiring vision of a sustainable future. It outlines the steps that we need to take to address the climate crisis and create a more just and equitable world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the transition to renewable energy. It discusses the challenges and opportunities of this transition and offers a roadmap for achieving a sustainable energy future.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/5hgk45/paths
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Effort
4 semaines d'étude, 1 à 2h par semaine
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
ESSEC Business School
Instructor
European University For Transition
Language
English
Good to know
Explores political worldviews that shape visions of the future
Examines the social implications of transitions in fields like economy, management, and business
Provides tools and strategies for implementing transitions in daily life
Created through the European University For Transition Erasmus + project, an initiative focused on developing innovative learning practices for sustainability transitions
Suitable for learners interested in social and ecological transitions, regardless of prior knowledge or experience
May require additional research or consultation for learners seeking in-depth knowledge or specialized skills in specific transition-related fields
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