All PEEC Storythreads are powerful pedagogical tools that can be used by teachers and schools to explore the outer and inner work of Sustainability. A Storythread Unit allows teachers and students to engage with the new, connected ways of thinking and valuing that underpin Sustainability in two main ways:
- First, by inviting them to step into an environmental story that mirrors The Learning for Sustainability Cycle (below), and draws them into a reflective inquiry and problem solving experience in real places (Chapters One and Two).
- Second, by asking them to engage with the cycle in an emotional and intellectual way so they can initiate positive environmental and social actions that make life better in their own school context (Chapters Three and Four).
The Learning for Sustainability Cycle (Adapted from the work of Sarah Schley)
Elements of The Learning for Sustainability Cycle (adapted from the work of Sarah Schley):
1. Reflection and Contemplation
Contemplation is a critical part of the cycle because it quietens the mind, decreases static in our systems and allows us to put our busy lives on hold. It sharpens our ability to connect emotionally and see interconnections more clearly so we can act in accordance with our aspirations for self, community and world.
2. Awareness of the Connections to All Life
It makes an enormous difference to anyone’s perspective and capabilities when they not only intellectually see the interconnections, but also emotionally feel them. A deeper awareness of the underlying interconnections of life can lead to a greater sense of responsibility for the whole and a shift in how we think about reality.
3. Creative Tension
Awareness of our connection to all things leads us to look for a better quality of life. It also highlights the gap between a desired future and current reality, which can easily lead to denial, despair and emotional tension. Bit by bit we can learn to live with this emotional tension as we learn to close the gap in practical and meaningful ways.
4. Coherence of Action
Living with creative tension leads to better results. If we are tuned into the gap between our vision and reality we pay more attention to the signals coming back to us in response to our actions. Learning to listen to the feedback loops from outside allows us to make much better decisions that lead to positive action.
Becoming ‘profoundly’ attentive and learning to listen deeply and in a reflective way to what is happening around us are key skills that are vital in enabling teachers and students to engage with the Learning for Sustainability Cycle.