In this workshop, we will create a learning community that engages participants in activities that combine systems thinking, sustainable economics, and the science of sustainability. This full-day workshop is designed to increase participants’ awareness, knowledge, and understanding of the core concepts, content, and habits of mind that characterize living and working toward a sustainable future.

Introduction and “The Fish Game” Simulation

This hands-on workshop engages participants in an interactive, replicable, interdisciplinary classroom activity that combines systems thinking tools, ecological systems, and economics for a deeper understanding of our role in moving toward a more sustainable future. A discussion of ‘mental models for sustainability’ and ‘activities to reach sustainable outcomes’ provides participants with a hopeful paradigm for education and community action.

Quality of Life Indicators

What is an indicator of progress? What indicators do we currently use in our society? Are these the best measures of our quality of life and, if not, what would be better measures?

“Diminishing Resources” Activity

How can you, your colleagues, and your students use systems thinking to solve problems? How do you know you are solving the real problem? How can you ensure that you don’t create even more, unintended problems in your attempts? This session will make use of critical systems thinking tools of Education for Sustainability (EfS) in order to create a framework for effectively solving problems.

Education for Sustainability Framework

Why educate for a sustainable future? This session will introduce the EfS framework, including the core content and habits of mind of EfS.

Discussion of Next Steps and Reflections