A short survey to determine the key ideas for an online ‘ecoliteracy for the arts’ course
I’m exploring ways to help others in the arts gain ecoliteracy as I’ve had an increase in people seeking out my knowledge this year (even though I live in a rural area).
I’m looking at new ways to share my experience that don’t overstretch my and the Earth’s resources. Please read below for proposed course outline and the link to the short survey – Thank you for participating!
A new online ‘Ecoliteracy for the Arts’ course
by Cathy Fitzgerald, PhD by Practice in Ecological Art 
Proposed course idea:
In this unprecedented time of ecological emergencies, I am developing an accessible and affordable online course* to increase ecoliteracy (ecological understanding) for creative practitioners, art educators, curators, art organisation staff, art activists and art historians in all art disciplines.
Ecoliteracy is the basis of creating impactful work and strategies to inspire audiences and communities for the better world we know is possible.
The proposed ‘Ecoliteracy Essentials for the Arts’ course is not intended to instruct people on how to make environmental art. Rather, the course lessons and resources will help creative workers to confidently navigate environmental science, explore the root causes of the eco-social crises and give examples of best practice. An online format also has the potential for networking, developing a community for support and peer-to-peer learning.
Cathy
Online courses benefits over learning in an education institution:
- you can learn from home, therefore eliminating the costs of living away from home and / or the resources used in travelling
- online courses are much more affordable than courses offered by institutions as there are few overhead costs
- you can learn at your own pace, at a time and in an environment, that suits you
- online learning provides accessible opportunities for learning if you are working, caretaking or have other difficulties in attending a class
- online courses require motivation, you will improve your work habits
- online course providers can offer topics that may take traditional colleges years to develop
- you can have access to experts and like-minded people in online discussion forums, who may or may not live in your country
