About this Course
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
What You'll Learn
- Create models of system parts, boundaries, and behaviors
- Evaluate system sustainability using multiple methods
- Generate ideas for improving system sustainability
- Explain mindset shifts enhancing sustainability
Prerequisites
- Basic computer and internet skills
- Ability to follow English instructions and short practices
Instructors
Leidy Klotz
Associate Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and University of Virginia School of Architecture