Course Description
"Systems Thinking for Environmental and Social Justice" is an introductory-level course offered by WisconsinX that delves into the intricate web of life and human systems. This course takes a holistic approach to understanding environmental and climate crises, exploring their root causes through an intersectional justice-based lens. By examining the interconnectedness of living and non-living elements in ecosystems, as well as the complexities of human neural, social, political, and economic systems, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how these systems influence our world and our future.
What Students Will Learn
- An intersectional justice-based perspective on environmental and climate crises
- Tracing systemic root causes of environmental issues
- New conceptual paradigms and practical solutions for restoring balance
- Five contemplative practices for building inner resilience
- Techniques to expand creative imagination and apply learning to personal life
- Understanding of environmental and human systems interconnectedness
- Approaches to community-building and creating a just future
Prerequisites
This course has no specific prerequisites, making it accessible to anyone interested in environmental studies, systems thinking, and social justice. However, an open mind and willingness to engage in self-reflection and creative exercises will enhance the learning experience.
Course Content
- The web of life and ecosystem interdependence
- Human systems: neural, social, political, and economic
- Systems approach to understanding past and present environmental issues
- Intersectional justice-based framing of environmental and climate crises
- Root causes of environmental and social challenges
- Conceptual paradigms for restoring balance in systems
- Practical solutions for individual and community action
- Contemplative practices for building inner resilience
- Creative imagination exercises and personal application of course concepts
Who This Course Is For
- Students interested in environmental studies and social justice
- Individuals concerned about climate change and seeking ways to make a difference
- Community leaders and activists looking to enhance their understanding of systems thinking
- Anyone seeking to develop personal resilience in the face of environmental challenges
- Professionals in fields related to sustainability, social work, or community development
Real-World Applications
- Developing more effective environmental and social justice initiatives
- Improving personal resilience and coping strategies for eco-anxiety and climate distress
- Creating community-based projects that address systemic issues
- Enhancing decision-making in personal and professional contexts by considering interconnected systems
- Advocating for policy changes with a deeper understanding of root causes and potential solutions
- Implementing contemplative practices in daily life for improved well-being
- Applying systems thinking to problem-solving in various fields, from business to education
This course is part of the Professional Certificate in Psychology of Deep Resilience, which focuses on addressing ecoanxiety and climate distress for individual, social, and ecological well-being. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills and personal development, "Systems Thinking for Environmental and Social Justice" equips learners with the tools needed to navigate and positively impact our complex world.
