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Sustainability + Environmentalism for Individuals + Communities

Semi-private introduction to sustainable practices + climate change. Exploration of what we can do (recycling, transit, thrifting) + who is responsible for environmental protection (e.g. business, government, community).
Allison Bishins, Entrepreur + Business Classes
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(94)
Class
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What's included

1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hours

Class Experience

US Grade 8 - 11
Beginner - Intermediate Level
In this interactive, semi-private class (maximum 2 learners), we will explore what sustainability is and how we can make small, sustainable steps in our daily lives to help the planet.  We'll start with a basic definition of what sustainability is, and cover a variety of topics that may include (depending on learner interests and class flow):
     - Fixing and mending old items rather than throwing them away
     - Buying secondhand (and what items are best bought new)
     - Buying local and avoiding sites like Amazon
     - The difference between reducing, reusing + recycling
     - Producing things yourself (e.g. gardening, helping fix other people's clothes, etc.)
     - The role of bartering and community in sustainability
     - Transportation and city design (e.g. buses, sidewalks, crosswalks)

Learners need space to wiggle and be silly.  I try to be flexible and understand that everyone learns differently.  It's also my responsibility to have a classroom that's not super distracting, as this can impact learning as well.  These classroom guidelines help us all start from the same page, and keep class flowing well!
1)  Video on or off (after verification)!  Discussions can be verbal or in *on-topic* chats.
2)  Be respectful; don't interrupt; raise your (physical or digital) hand!  Don't intentionally distract other students (e.g. putting things directly in front of the camera)
3)  Because they can be quite distracting, this class does not allow video filters, avatars, or background changes (except blur).
4)  If necessary, I will move a disruptive student to the waiting room.  If appropriate, I will let them back in for another chance to stay in class respectfully.  If this occurs and you have questions, please reach out to Support.
5)  Any racist, homophobic, body shaming, violent or inappropriate language/images will result in removal from class.  If this happens, you may email outschool@support.com with any questions.  

A few other notes:
-  Please click your meeting link 2-3 minutes early so we can start class on time!  
-  Per OS policy, if there are no students in the classroom 10 minutes after class starts, I will log off and end class.  (If you're having tech issues trying to enter the classroom, just send a message or post in the classroom, so I know you are there!)
-  If you cannot attend, please let me know at least 24 hours before class starts, so I can transfer you to a different section (when possible).  When it might not be possible: if you ask for a transfer for a multiday class the day before it starts, and your transfer will result in the class dropping below the learner minimum, I may not be able to offer a transfer.  But if I can, I will!
-  Class recordings are not automatically shared; they will be made available when possible.  Please note, new OS policy is that a learner can't watch a video until they have attended class, unless they are a verified learner.
-  Learners are encouraged to advocate for how they would like to participate.  If your learner needs adult help (e.g. adult on screen, adult answers for child or facilitates answers, adult takes notes), please let me know in advance per OS parent guidance.

Learning Goals

Learners will improve their understanding of sustainability and how it relates to personal, family and community choices.
learning goal

Other Details

Parental Guidance
Any social media apps referenced will not be linked; learners are reminded that social media requires assistance and access from adults.
Supply List
Paper and pen.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
4.9
94reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree from London School of Economics
Bachelor's Degree from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
I have a Master's Degree in City Design and Social Science, as well as experience writing federal policy for climate change, land use and transportation.  I also host an annual Sustainability Summit in my region that focuses on intersectionality and community responsibility.

Reviews

Live One-Time Class
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$28

per class
Meets once
55 min

Completed by 15 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-17
1-2 learners per class

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