Sustainability through Soccer: Systems-Thinking in Action

University of Virginia via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/sustainability-through-soccer

Introduction

**Course Review: Sustainability through Soccer: Systems-Thinking in Action on Coursera** Are you passionate about soccer and interested in sustainability? If so, "Sustainability through Soccer: Systems-Thinking in Action" is the perfect course for you. Offered on Coursera, this innovative course combines two seemingly disparate topics—soccer and sustainability—using the former as a compelling metaphor to delve into the latter. ### Overview This course invites learners from all backgrounds—whether you're a die-hard soccer fan or a complete novice—to embark on an engaging journey through systems-thinking and sustainability concepts. By drawing parallels between the dynamics of soccer and real-world environmental, social, and economic interdependencies, the course elucidates complex themes such as climate change, human rights, and the intricate web of influences impacting our world today. ### Course Syllabus The course is structured into four key modules, each carefully designed to guide learners through a holistic understanding of sustainability using soccer as a lens: 1. **Background and System Parts**: - This initial module sets the stage by introducing the instructor's personal motivation for intertwining soccer with systems-thinking. It clearly outlines foundational concepts such as systems and reductionist thinking, and introduces essential components of any system like elements, flows, stocks, feedback loops, and purpose. This module effectively contextualizes why understanding these parts is crucial for grasping broader sustainability issues. 2. **System Boundaries and Behaviors**: - In this section, learners explore the critical role of defining system boundaries in sustainability contexts. It challenges you to think about what is included or excluded in our analysis and teaches you how to infer valuable insights from these definitions. Additionally, it dives into system-level behaviors, enriching your comprehension of how various components interact and affect sustainability outcomes. 3. **Evaluating Systems and Creating Sustainable Systems**: - Here, participants learn to evaluate the sustainability of existing systems and identify methods for measurement. This module empowers learners to apply practical properties and evaluation techniques to assess sustainability effectively. Ultimately, it prepares participants to design and implement more sustainable systems, bridging the gap between theory and practice. 4. **The Endless Quest for Sustainability**: - Concluding the course, this section emphasizes that sustainability is not a destination but rather an ongoing journey. It encourages continuous effort and acknowledges the learning and discoveries that come from grappling with complex sustainability challenges. This final module is particularly inspiring, reminding learners of the excitement that comes with lifelong learning and adaptation. ### Why You Should Take This Course 1. **Engaging Methodology**: The unique approach of using soccer as a metaphor makes complex sustainability concepts accessible and relatable, catering to diverse learning styles. 2. **Holistic Perspective**: By integrating systems-thinking into the discussion of sustainability, the course fosters a deeper understanding of interdependencies and encourages critical thinking. 3. **Practical Application**: Each module provides not only theoretical insights but also practical tools and frameworks that learners can apply in their communities or professional contexts. 4. **Community and Interaction**: Coursera's platform enables interaction with fellow learners, allowing you to engage in discussions, share experiences, and expand your understanding through collaborative learning. 5. **Inspiring Message**: The course's conclusion serves as a motivational reminder that sustainability is a continuous process, encouraging you to maintain an inquisitive and proactive mindset. ### Conclusion "Sustainability through Soccer: Systems-Thinking in Action" is more than just an educational experience; it’s a call to engage with the pressing issues of our time through a unique and entertaining lens. Whether you're an environmental enthusiast, a soccer lover, or simply someone seeking to make a positive impact, this course offers valuable insights and tools that can help you in your journey. I highly recommend you enroll and be prepared to see the beautiful game—and the world—through a new lens.

Syllabus

Background and System Parts

This section explains who I am, why I'm using soccer as a metaphor, systems and reductionist thinking and sustainability. This section also outlines the main parts of a system (elements, flows, stocks, feedback loops, and purpose).

System Boundaries and Behaviors

Our approach to sustainability depends on how we define our system boundaries. What must we consider? What can we leave out? And, what can we reasonably infer from the perspective we define? We will also dive into system behaviors in this section. With parts and boundaries defined, we can detect system-level behaviors and discover how they affect sustainability.

Evaluating Systems and Creating Sustainable Systems

To evaluate sustainability in our systems, and check our progress, there are properties to consider and methods to apply. Once we define and evaluate our systems, then we’re ready to create systems that are more sustainable.

The Endless Quest for Sustainability

There is no magical fix; pursuing sustainability is an endless quest of constant effort at the limits of our abilities, and that’s where the fun is.