Course content
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“Our task is to look at the world and see it whole”, EF Schumacher, from A Guide for the Perplexed.
For the date of our next MSc Open Day – click here Introduction What you will learn Course content Structure Entry and fees Tutors and contributors |
The programme is structured into themed cycles of learning, followed by action and practice. Making fundamental change to the way you think involves deep engagement and time - time to reflect on your learning and to test ideas in action.
| Topic | Credits | |
| 1 | Current paradigms and prevailing ways of thinking
Understand the history and influence of current paradigms, ways of thinking, and approaches to economics, politics, science, business and social systems. |
20 |
| 2 |
The side-effects of prevailing ways of thinking Be aware of current scientific data and opinion which describes the state of our planet, in particular in relation to its climate, habitats, diversity, population, resources and wastes. |
20 |
| 3 |
Other paradigms and worldviews Be familiar with a range of different paradigms (systems thinking and complexity, ecology, deep ecology, Gaia theory) for understanding the human and natural worlds and their inter-relationship. Explore the contrast between mechanistic and systemic views |
20 |
| 4 |
The Consequences of other paradigms and worldviews Consider the consequences of the interdependent nature of systemic and complexity based views. How do we make responsible choices, ethically, socially and environmentally? |
20 |
| 5 |
Managing Sustainability Understand the arguments and issues in relation to developing a more sustainable approach to society, politics, economics and business; consider different approaches to organisational management and leadership. Consider the importance of, and how to develop community. |
20 |
| 6 | Managing change in uncertainty – individually, in organisations and in communities
On the basis of systems thinking and complexity, explore, develop, implement and manage sustainable change, for both self and organisation, in uncertain and complex conditions. |
20 |
| Independent project
Consolidate your learning through reflection and action. |
60 |
(The inspiration for these themes came in part from the approaches used by Stephan Harding, in his book Animate Earth, and by Fritjof Capra, in his book The Web of Life.)
Each theme is explored initially in one of a series of six, 4 or 5day workshops, at intervals of three months, spread over 18 months. Between each workshop, you act on the accumulating effect of the programme, consolidating your learning from the whole programme in a final individual project. The detailed content of each theme will be developed collaboratively with you, and your fellow students. Extensive use will be made of approaches such as Café Society and Open Space. Following input from readings, speakers or other sources, you will develop your own agenda for learning through discussion and feedback. You will join a small learning-group for the duration of the programme. This group will provide mutual support, assisting the development of your ideas.