After establishing a secure systemic understanding, the Climate Academy mobilises citizens into the democratic space at a local, national or global level.
Going beyond just passive learning is critically important. By sharing understanding, an individual or a small group can have a wide and significant impact on the whole community. As the famous statement attributed to Margaret Mead states, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
There is evidence to support this claim.
The Harvard Professor of Public Policy, Erica Chenoweth, examined hundreds of historical campaigns in the 20th century. The patterns in the data for successful non-violent revolutions or campaigns indicate that overturning the status quo does not require a huge majority of people to be actively engaged in the struggle.
With just 3.5% of people fully committing to the cause, at a peak moment, there is a very high chance of success. So, even if it doesn’t feel like it, even if things seem entrenched and immovable, history is on the side of those on the margins who want to overturn an injustice.
The authoritative science of the Climate Academy material provides a framework with which the students can reach out to the community with security. The key science data, vocabulary, metaphors and systemic vision, empower students to publish high level work.
As active learners, when students bringing their understanding and skills the civic space, a steep and deep learning curve is triggered. Peer teaching, public speaking and event organization quickly advance important skills in communication.
The unique vantage point provided by the clarity of the written resources can inspire students to bring their understanding into the civic space. The Climate Academy mobilises students into the civic space according to their strongest abilities and interests.
Working on projects in a team brings to the surface the special strengths and talents of each member. It also teaches resilience and collaboration. The diversity of material and the diversity of output in the Academy allows each student to cultivate their own interests in a constructive community.
Climate Academy members can achieve change through two different activities: Publications or Events.
In each case, the point of the civic engagement is to point at the systemic changes that are needed. These publications or events are always rooted in the particular interests, experiences or expertise of those involved, but they always point outwards to the structural transformations that are required.
The publications can be articles or art works, podcasts or posters, a video or a vlog.
The events can be evening talk or a one day summit, a street festival or street protest.
For every civic engagement there are different levels of certificates to recognise that achievement.
The Climate Academy often works in close collaboration with News Decoder, a global news service for young people. This highly professional organization can provide a range of support for Climate Academy students, such as interviewing, reporting and podcasting training resources and one-on-one mentoring with experienced journalists who guide the pitching, editing and publication of articles. Check out their website for more information.
