Abstract

The current global education climate is one where the boundaries between university-based and non-university-based learning are more fluid than ever before. Lifelong learning, and self-paced, self-directed, experiential learning that happens at the grassroots outside of formal education has a crucial role to play in supporting the ongoing processes of human and planetary survival and wellbeing. In varied contexts all around the world we see grassroots models of learning already at work and playing a critical role into the future, for example, models of learning from nature, through Indigenous co-design, peer-to-peer exchange, action research and strength-based approaches. This session aims to celebrate and recognise the value of grassroots models of learning for more sustainable futures and to identify and begin to ‘package’ key learnings for wider application. Examples are sought particularly in areas of climate change adaptation, community food economies, and use of indigenous language and communication tools.

In shorthand this session aims to:

(1) recognise and value grassroots models of learning

(2) brainstorm and begin to ‘package’ learnings that emerge

Package 1: learnings for educators (schools, university-based, community organisations-based including CEI)

Package 2: learnings for development agencies and policy makers

Package 3: learnings for community economy advocates

If you would like to contribute to this session contact the Convenor by September 30.