Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Anne Parker on March 30, 2009 at 11:31am

Hi Les - thanks for getting this up so quickly!!! I have asked my colleagues to review and offer edits. We'll get back to you in a few days. Our Dean of the BA college aready found it independantly of my letting her know and was really pleased to see it.

Sincrely,
Anne Parker

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Les Squires on March 30, 2009 at 1:32pm

Deans surely have a way of finding out about things, don't they... GRIN! I always found that was true when I was in college.... Delighted to hear you're pleased.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Les Squires on March 30, 2009 at 1:34pm

By the way, does Naropa have a logo that is in one piece. The logo I used above is in two pieces and there is a small space I can't get rid of. Attach the logo here on this page and I'll be sure to update it above.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Anne Parker on April 3, 2009 at 5:50pm

Hi Les,

Overall this looks great but we did notice that the NU logo is divided in half - was that an artistic idea or a computer graphic error? I think it could look better as one piece. The semester is crazy busy but later I hope to add a list of the specific MA courses that are avaible to students and the public as well Thanks for your work on this!
Anne Parker

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Anne Parker on April 3, 2009 at 5:54pm

Opps Les I didn't read your earlier reply. I tried to save the NU logo off the NU site but it divided in half again. I'll get back to you with another one next week

Cheers,
Anne

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Les Squires on April 3, 2009 at 8:47pm

ok

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Anne Parker on April 9, 2009 at 5:31pm

Les,
Thanks for you work on this site!
Our faculty have all reviewed the Naropa piece above and we request for the following edits or changes:

1. Under links to the NU site:
a. Change the heading "Student Groups" to Transition Naropa University"
b. Change the Faculty Directory link from the whole faculty of Naropa to a link to just the the Environmental Studies Faculty for more direct relevance
2. Under the short text area we ask for this material to replace what is there:
Naropa University’s Environmental Studies Department offers significant education for those in the Transition movement who are seeking the learning, re-skilling, and heart and soul skills needed to lead towards a sustainable future and the resilience of local communities.
Naropa University is a liberal arts colleges located in Boulder, Colorado, USA. Naropa University has both a BA in Environmental Studies and an MA in Environmental Leadership. Please see www.naropa.edu for full details. See below for a list of the BA and MA courses that are offered. Many of these courses are open for local public enrollment as well as for the degree students.
BA in Environmental Studies
The 36-credit Environmental Studies major at Naropa University welcomes students who feel drawn to study, celebrate and serve the earth. The program emphasizes experiential learning, natural science, personal growth and an awakened relationship between self and world.
We combine multicultural views, contemplative practice and effective action in engaging environmental issues. Field trips, experiential teaching methods and small class sizes provide students with hands-on knowledge that fosters life-long learning.
The major integrates the disciplines of Natural Science, Ecology, Horticulture, Systems Theory, Ecopsychology, Service Learning, and Sustainable Living. Sound information about natural and human systems joined with a contemplative path and spiritual awareness provide the foundation upon which all courses are built. Students acquire information and experience through many ways of knowing.
All courses are taught via active experience, analytical thought, contemplation and intuitive exploration. The classroom community works to help students build trust and skill while uniting science, spirit and engagement.
BA Courses in Environmental Studies
ENV 100
Physical Geography: Beholding the Body of the Earth (3)
Deepening our natural understanding of the earth as a living system, this course explores Gaia Theory and the new cosmology of the earth that is emerging in science. Within this framework we explore the formation of the earth—geomorphology and geophysiology—or one could say the “digestion,” “circulatory” and other systems of Gaia. This new vision in Western science can reawaken understanding and reconfirm our commitment and reciprocity with the earth. Required for entry into ENV major
Includes aspects of climate change and new science perspectives on the Earth as a living system
ENV 207
History of the Environmental Movement (3)
An examination of the history of the environmental movement from a U.S. and global perspective. Fundamental elements that inform and shape environmental movements around the world and the impact on people and their response are studied. Required for ENV majors.
Includes aspects of the context and details of the Transition Moment

ENV 215
Sustainability (3)
An introduction to the definitions and principles of sustainability, this course explores models and dimensions of sustainability in both the natural world and in human societies. Current examples of sustainable design and development in different parts of the world are offered to inspire students to “think sustainability” and to be alert to it in every aspect of their learning. Personal impact on the environment and personal sustainability are examined as aspects of developing a sustainable vision for the present and the future. Required for ENV majors.
Includes aspects of Peak Oil, resource use issues and action

ENV 220
Ecology and Systems Science (3)
This science course introduces students to the basic principles of ecology and natural cycles in the earth, soil, water, air and living systems. It also introduces the basic principles of systems theory. Students develop a strong foundation in basic ecology and systems thinking for the subsequent field science courses and applied courses in horticulture. Required for ENV majors. Prerequisite:
ENV 100.
Key tools for knowing how local ecosystems work

ENV 226
Global Corporatism (3)
We are currently experiencing on a planetary scale a dialectical great shift of worldviews analogous in scope to the Copernican cosmological revolution. The wave of “global corporatism” sweeping the planet is, in its present form, the end of the logical political-economic-social manifestation of scientific materialism. This shift has awakened a renewed interest in other worldviews and models of community, which are decentralized, diverse, locally inspired and indigenous. Students explore these issues and how we may be inspired to consciously participate in the cocreation of a new worldview.
Covers the system we have and the shift out of it
ENV 236
Green Building (3)
An introduction to green construction practices and design and a wide range of green technologies that contribute to sustainable living. The course includes practical hands-on experience and field trips.
Reskilling

ENV 245
Geography: Pilgrimage and Sacred Landscape (3)
Religious and cultural worldviews play a significant role in shaping our understanding of and impact on the earth. Students explore the world through the lens of pilgrimage and sacred landscape. Geography is a discipline of storytelling of the earth. Thus, we engage in listening, reading, writing and telling stories to recall and awaken our connection with the earth. Required for entry into
the ENV major.
Heart and soul perspectives for a envisioning a positive future and tools to stay in balance: Seeing and sensing our places as sacred

ENV 250
Nature, the Sacred and Contemplation (3)
An exploration of the individual, cultural and contemplative dimensions of the human-nature relationship. It provides the contemplative tools of mindfulness meditation, sensory awareness exercises and other nature-based awareness practices in order for students to examine and refine their own experiences of nature and the sacred. A three-day retreat in September with a solo contemplative nature walk is a required part of the course. Course fee. Required for ENV majors.

Heart and soul perspectives for a envisioning a positive future and tools to stay in balance Being present to the natural world

ENV 253
Environmental Economics (3)
An examination of how conventional economic theory, as well as alternative economic theories, applies to natural resource use and the environment. Fundamental principles of economic relationship to natural resources, externalities, limits to economic growth, the trade-off between growth and the environment, globalization and global ecological issues are studied. Students learn tools of economic analysis and their application to environmental issues and problems.

Good stuff to know to understand what is happening: Know the old systems to shift towards the new and look at new pathways forward

ENV 260
Introduction to Permaculture (3)
This course introduces a core set of principles that help us to design human living environments that are increasingly self-sufficient while reducing our society's reliance on industrial systems of production and distribution that are fundamentally damaging to the planet's ecosystems. This design system known as Permaculture covers basic agro-ecological design theory. We explore this in a hands-on way while creating edible landscapes, diverse gardens, compost systems and growing food on the campus. This course also includes field trips and demonstrations. Materials fee. Required for ENV majors.

Reskilling

ENV 302
Environmental Pollution and Solutions (3)
An examination of the key issues of pollution in all of earth’s systems—air, water, soil, earth and human habitation. Students engage the key issues, understand the chemistry and explore the social dilemmas. This course particularly seeks to explore solutions, both technical and social. Students learn to become attentive monitors of pollution and creative problem-solvers in the context of community and governmental approaches to solutions. Required for ENV majors. Prerequisite: ENV 220.

We need to know how to re-heal our places

ENV 311
Plant Ecology (3)
This field course introduces students to the principles of plant identification and the ecosystems of the Boulder region. Field trips are the central aspect of this class. We visit the diverse array of ecosystems of this region at various elevations. Students learn to read and understand the plant distribution patterns of this region. Prerequisite: ENV 220.

Useful tools for understanding the place you live and how to re-localize

ENV 318
Deep Ecology (3)
This course serves as an exploration of the philosophical dimensions of the human-nature relationship. While Deep Ecology serves as the primary framework for this exploration, other approaches, such as ecofeminism and social ecology, are considered. Deep ecology alternatives for addressing ethical and ecological problems are examined along with options for effective and compassionate action. Required for ENV majors.

Heart and soul perspectives for a envisioning a positive future and tools to stay in balance: Looks at alterative ways to live sustainably

ENV 321
Geology (3)
This field course introduces students to the basic principles of geology through exploring the Front Range, and using the world class rock exposures found in this area. Students learn to identify rocks and minerals as well as landscapes shaped by streams, wind and glaciers. We study the vast expanse of geologic time in the context of the history of the Rocky Mountains. Field trips are a central part of this course. Prerequisite: ENV 220.

Useful tools for understanding the place you live and how to re-localize
ENV 342
Permaculture Design (3)
This hands-on, applied course builds on the work of Introduction to Permaculture and examines mycology, orchard design, soil development, water management, natural pest management, crop rotation and other areas in the context of a variety of gardening models including permaculture and biodynamic farming. Students develop skills for sustainable food growing. The course also includes field trips and demonstrations. Materials fee. Prerequisite: ENV 260.
Reskilling
ENV 351
Wildlife Ecology (3)
This field course introduces students to the principles of wildlife biology and animal identification, and to the wildlife of the Boulder region. Field trips play a central role in this course, allowing students to observe and understand animals in their native habitats. Prerequisite: ENV 220.
Useful tools for understanding the place you live and how to re-localize
ENV 355
Environmental Justice (3)
An examination of contemporary issues of environmental justice/racism in the United States and throughout the world. The environmental justice movement is based on social justice/multicultural issues. Required for ES majors. Prerequisite: ENV 207.
A key perspective needing more attention and emphasis in the Transition movement
ENV 357
Creating a Learning Community (noncredit)
This course provides support structures, allowing students to integrate further their academic and personal journey. Malidome Some defines community as “any group of people meeting with the intention to connect to the power within.” It is through the attentive and caring lens of others that we can come to truly know ourselves and be seen for who we are. Through community practices and engagement, action projects and activities, students have the opportunity to develop deeper relationships with their peers, share information and ideas, collaborate on projects and celebrate their journey together. ENV majors are required to take this
course four times, usually in the junior and senior years.
Heart and Soul skills for creating community

ENV 363
Indigenous Environmental Issues (3)
An exploration of the historical relationship between indigenous peoples and their environment in each of the ecosystems under consideration; change in the relationship as a result of European contact; modernization and development; and the current integration of these areas into the present global market economy. Prerequisite: ENV 355.
Traditional models of sustainability
ENV 370
Ecopsychology (3)
This course highlights key theories and core practices associated with the emerging field of ecopsychology. A basic tenet of ecopsychology is that personal and planetary well-being are inseparable. The theory and practice of ecopsychology is directed toward enhancing the health of the human-nature relationship. The work of ecopsychology is to understand, heal and develop the psychological dimensions of the human-nature relationship through connecting with natural processes in the web of life.
Heart and soul perspectives for a envisioning a positive future and tools to stay in balance: Healing our relationships with the more than human world
ENV 399
Independent Study (1–4)
Recommended for students majoring in Environmental Studies. Best taken after required courses in this area.
Possibility for designing your personal re-skilling inquiry and learning

ENV 420
Environmental Service Learning: Ecological Restoration (3)
This course requires students to apply their skills from classroom learning and to engage in hands-on environmental work while developing their leadership skills and contemplative approaches to environmental action. Students engage in real issues and learn through practical experience about environmental problem solving, community concerns and teamwork. In this service-learning team project, students engage with community partners in ecological restoration work in our community. Students are responsible for project planning and design, implementation and final presentation of outcomes to the community partners. Required for ENV majors.
Healing our local lands is an aspect of re-skilling

ENV 480
Senior Project Course (3)
The Senior Project Course is a capstone project–based course in which students demonstrate their cumulative knowledge, skills and abilities in a specific environmental-based research or action project. Students meet in a course format and work independently and collectively on a research project. Students are expected to follow guidelines for the research project and meet specific course criteria. Required for ENV majors.
An opportunity for students who want to design a major re-skilling, strategy, or community building aspect of Transition work.


MA in Environmental Leadership for a just and sustainable society
The Environmental Leadership degree prepares the next generation of innovative thinkers and activists to lead organizational and community transformation toward an environmentally just and sustainable society.
Employing an integrated, living-systems perspective and infused with insights from ecopsychology and contemplative traditions, the program offers a balance of theory, skills, inner development and experiential application.
The MA in Environmental Leadership trains students to lead creatively and compassionately from a strong inner foundation of self-knowledge. Under this new paradigm of leadership, our MA students are empowered to direct and manifest an emerging future that integrates multicultural perspectives, collaborative decision-making and cutting-edge environmental thinking on behalf of the earth and all living beings.
MA Courses
ENV 520e
Deep Ecology in Context (3)
This online course offers an introduction to deep ecology philosophy in historical and cultural contexts, including contemporary currents of thought such as ecopsychology, ecospirituality, systems thinking, bioregionalism and voluntary simplicity. Deep ecology alternatives for addressing ethical and ecological problems are examined along with options for effective and compassionate action. Required for MATP ECOC. Online fees apply.
ENV 565e
Ecopsychology (3)
Ecopsychology is concerned with human and ecological health, and proposes that the well-being of both is intimately linked. Ecopsychology places psychology in an ecological context and draws on psychological insight for effective and sustainable environmental action. This online course integrates academic, experiential and contemplative approaches in examining ecopsychological theory and practices. Required for MATP ECOC. Online fees apply.

ENV 600
Inner Work for Environmental Leaders I (3)
This course introduces mindfulness training through sitting and walking meditation as a ground for developing wakefulness and trust in ourselves and the phenomenal world, as well as nature-based ecopyschological practices that explore the relationship between nature, psyche and spirit. Emphasis is on bringing the nonduality of wilderness mind back home and applying it to our daily activities and relationships. Experiencing mind without analysis, reinforcement or rejection clears the way to relate directly with others and develop skills for a new kind of leadership. The course includes an introductory two-day retreat. Course fee. Required for EL MA.
ENV 610
Groups as Living Systems: Matrixworks (3)
This course introduces both the concepts and principles of groups as living systems and an experiential approach to working with groups based on the Matrix Leadership model. The course utilizes emerging new principles in science, spirituality and psychology to conceptualize and support the growth and development of healthy, high functioning groups, while meeting the needs of the individual. Students learn by experientially and analytically engaging the three stages of group life: inclusion, conflict and mutual connection. Students develop a number of key tools for generating and maintaining creative and functional groups that are applicable in any organizational or community setting. Required for EL MA.
ENV 630
Transforming Systems (3)
An introduction to general and living systems theory as an effective paradigm for engaging in change processes at different scales in both biological and social domains. Particular attention is given to how systems of all scales transform into new systems, leading to an exploration of environmental, social and cultural change processes. The course provides interwoven strands of information, theory and application from the sociocultural, ecological, spiritual, political, economic and personal/contemplative spheres. Theory is anchored in lived experience through personal and group work, field learning in the social and natural sciences and problem-solving. Required for EL MA.
ENV 635
Political Ecology for Global Environmental Leadership (3)
Political ecology is an interdisciplinary, nondualistic strategy for ecological justice and facilitating social change. Political ecologists view nature not as a neutral terrain outside of human history and social relations, but as geographically and historically specific; it shapes and is shaped by human desires, interests and actions. The course introduces students to a set of conceptual tools to analyze the political, economic and cultural contexts of natural resource use and management especially in the Third World. The class starts with traditional frameworks of political ecology and works through newer work reflecting engagements with culture, space, place, power, gender and race. Required for EL MA.
ENV 645
The New Science and Its Cultural Applications (3)
In a synthesis of the old and new visions in Western science, this course develops understanding of the new material emerging in science regarding the earth as a living system; examines cosmology and Gaian science, as well as key principles of geophysiology; and explores the significant cultural implications and applications. This material provides key tools and perspectives for environmental leaders, as well as insights useful for working with organizations and communities. Required for EL MA.
ENV 650
Inner Work for Environmental Leaders II (3)
A continuation of Inner Work for Environmental Leaders I. In addition to mindfulness training and nature-based ecopsychological practices, the course introduces specific practices of loving kindness and cultivating compassion in oneself and others (metta and tonglen from the Buddhist tradition) as essential tools for environmental practitioners. Topics include working with strong emotions, transformative approaches to conflict, effective communication with others and caring for the activist. This course includes a nonresidential weekend intensive. Course fee. Required for EL MA.
ENV 665
Wilderness Solo (3)
This eight-day wilderness camping retreat, which includes a three-day solo, is designed to mark a transition in the student’s program through an integration of learning, connections to land and place, and through a solo experience. In a context of solitude and deep connection with nature, the course seeks to integrate the first year of learning, assisting students in finding a path, clarifying responsibility in reciprocity with the earth, and illuminating the heart of service to the community. Community work and ritual surround and support this important solo experience. Must be taken in the summer between the first and second years of the program. Course fee. Required for EL MA.
ENV 705
Leadership Skills Seminar (3)
In this seminar, students study and gain hands-on experience in essential, traditional leadership skills. Theory and practical applications of conflict resolution, mediation and other selected skills are presented. Students develop their understanding through case studies and research, and learn and apply these skills in the class. Required for EL MA.
ENV 710
Sustainability: Policy and Practice (3)
Sustainability has emerged as a potentially unifying paradigm for work that simultaneously fosters human and planetary well-being. Students study the historical origins, theoretical frameworks and tools associated with the three-legged view (economy, environment, society) of current sustainability policies and practices, and use case study methodologies to analyze and evaluate how sustainability policies and practices are being designed and implemented in a variety of organizations and communities. Students conduct an experiential exploration of the personal and spiritual dimension of sustainability practice. Required for EL MA.
ENV 725
Applied Environmental Leadership Project (3)
Students are required to take a leadership role in a substantial project that leads to increased sustainability in an organizational or community setting. The project serves as demonstration of competence in the practical application of theory and skills learned in this degree program. This course is designed to support students through this process. Elements of project design and report writing are covered. Classes focus on coaching, feedback, analysis and presentation of the applied leadership projects. Required for and restricted to EL MA students.
ENV 785
Environmental Leadership Capstone Seminar (3)
In this capstone course, the student is expected to synthesize and integrate the conceptual and theoretical knowledge and understanding as well as skills acquired in the curriculum through course work, internships, leadership development, research and other learning activities. The emphasis is on the student's demonstrated development and competency of applied environmental leadership skills and written analytic material that can be utilized for individual student assessment and program assessment. Students are assessed on their professional report and formal presentation of their Applied Environmental Leadership Project during this semester. Prerequisite: completion of all other required courses in this major. Corequisite: simultaneous enrollment in MAR 500e. Required for and restricted to EL MA students.
ENV 887
Extended Master's Thesis/Project (0.5)
Students who have not completed the thesis/project may qualify for extension of the master's thesis semester. See Special Student Status. May be repeated. Credits from this class do not count toward graduation requirements.
MAR 500e
Authentic Leadership (6)
Naropa University’s Authentic Leadership program is a transformative leadership course that integrates ancient wisdom with effective, modern approaches to management. The format encourages deep, personal learning in an environment that makes it possible to assimilate ideas and concepts at an accelerated pace. Executive coaching with experienced professionals is a central component. A wide variety of professionals from around the country attends this course along with Naropa students. Students receive the Certificate in Authentic Leadership from Naropa’s Marpa Center for Business and Economics upon completion. Required for EL MA.

3. The list of BA course on the current site in incorrect. Here is the corrected List:

Environmental Justice
Ecopsychology
Physical Geography (new science)
History of the Environmental Movement
Sustainability
Ecology and Systems Science
Green Building
Geography, Pilgrimage and Sacred Landscape
Nature, the Sacred and Contemplation
Environmental Economics
Introduction tp Permaculture
Permaculture Design
Envioronmental Pollution and Solutions
Plant Ecology
Deep Ecology
Geology
Indigenous Environmebtal Issues
Environmental Service Learning: Ecological Restoration
Independant Study
Senior Project Course

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Les Squires on April 9, 2009 at 8:53pm

Anne, the original design of this section has the course descriptions in a Word file. I suggest we stay with that design, unless you have strong reasons for elimination of the Word file. In that case, you will need to have somebody create a new Word file and upload it here. Let me know.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Les Squires on April 9, 2009 at 9:06pm

Change the Faculty Directory link from the whole faculty of Naropa to a link to just the the Environmental Studies Faculty for more direct relevance

Please send me the link for this faculty listing. I can't find it. I only see one listing for all faculty.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Anne Parker on April 14, 2009 at 3:23pm

http://www.naropa.edu/academics/undergraduate/enviro/faculty.cfm

http://www.naropa.edu/academics/graduate/enviro/faculty.cfm

Les here are the two links to BA and MA faculty

I will send a Word file soon so the new text can be in there that describes the MA too
Thanks for your patience with our editing!

Anne

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Les Squires on April 15, 2009 at 4:17pm

Big thanks. I'll get on these asap. I'm currently in Vienna, doing a whirlwind tour teaching social networking through through Austria and Slovenia. Thanks for your updates.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Les Squires on April 18, 2009 at 12:57am

Done!

• ▶ Reply

• ‹ Previous
• 1
• 2
• Next ›
• Page