I have sincerely enjoyed my time in ENVR430 so much. I found the format of the course to be low-risk which made me feel comfortable answering and asking questions (general participation). I also felt that it fostered curiosity and community by having us regularly engage in conversation about topics to learn them rather than feel pressured to take detailed notes to regurgitate later or memorize facts. I felt the low risk format allowed me to ask more questions and think about topics more deeply as opposed to memorizing details to regurgitate on exams. I felt better about turning off my laptop and listening to every work Kai said which allowed for better engagement and memory consolidation as his examples hit home and were really interesting (and shocking). I found little to no issue with the online format (Cosphere, online readings and videos) and even found that it made the course more accessible by removing the cost of textbooks and taking advantage of media platforms we already use and that are easy to use (netflix etc). I also leave this course feeling better prepared to tackle real environmental issues in the world and a renewed feeling of empowerment and that I can make a difference.
I appreciate seeing this exam-free format in a course as important and informative as this one.
The final presentations thus far have really brought everything from the course and tied it together so amazingly. It is truly inspiring what we are capable of as students.
Thank you so much for everything, Kai and Dana! <3
I also feel like I've left this course feeling better prepared to tackle real environmental issues in the world and have a renewed sense of empowerment in making a difference!
I share your sentiment Amy - that's it is indeed inspiring the impact we're are capable of as students! I also loved the "turning off the laptops", to divide full attention to the content. I'm curious which examples you found to be most "shocking"!
I like the atmosphere that Kai brings to this course. While taking this course, it is not very stressful, and I could acquire knowledge from self-motivation and I feel like I’m eager to study more in ENVR 430 course. The interactions Kai brings to this course also activate the whole class, making the last course of the week fresh and anticipated.
Great post Amy, this course incited many interesting discussions.
Hi Amy I totally agree with you! ENVR 430 definitely inspired me on how to make a change for the environment on a daily basis
I agree that the final presentations have been a super awesome way to apply our learning! watching all the groups present has been so fun!
hey amy! I also felt way more comfortable speaking in ENVR 430.
It's so nice to see me and my fellow ENVR 430 members leaving this course inspired to foster world change!
Nice reflection Amy!! I agree that this course was accessible and educating in a non-traditional, but highly effective way. I look forward to seeing your final presentation tomorrow!! Thank for your support this term <3
I agree that not having to memorize things for tests definitely takes some of the pressure off of learning and incorporates more room for exploration into the course! Also enjoyed not having to pay for extra course materials:)
Hi Amy, I totally agree with you. If there is no pressure from tests and getting good grades, I really enjoy learning! By teaching us how to make real changes through workshop and campaigns are more meaningful and longlasting for me. I can do many follow up activities with my project but not from the exams right.