First Day Thoughts

"I have never let my schooling interfere with my education." - Mark Twain 

Learning Objectives

• Better know the background and interests of the instructor and classmates.

• Begin thinking about your strategy for capitalizing on the opportunities offered through this course.

Agenda

1. Contribute to Introductions
2. Discuss Expectations
3. Review Syllabus
4. Activity - What does sustainable infrastructure mean?
5. Review Discussion and Assignment/Quiz

Introduction

1. About me - slides Links to an external site.. 
2. Write down your (1) dream job, (2) your favorite things to do in Blacksburg. Share with your neighbor. Introduce your neighbor to the class. 
3. Recap first week of class session. 

Expectations

While the course is laid out with online readings and videos you will not get the most from this course by simply watching the videos and answering questions. The class will include a mix of in-class exercises, group work, critical thinking, and reflection. I expect you to actively participate and contribute to your classmates learning. Every class will include learning objectives, an agenda, in-class content, discussions and assignments.

Ramsey Musallam's three rules for learning: 

1. Curiosity comes first
2. Embrace the mess
3. Practice reflection

I expect you to uphold these throughout the course. The course allows opportunities to dive deep into subject matter of your choosing. I expect you to engage in this process through curiosity and not worry as much about a letter grade. Embrace the mess. There is no text book for this course. I am here to help facilitate the learning process but your job is to take ownership of it. Learning is not easy and, at times, appears chaotic. Through the discussion posts, assignments and epiphanies you will have to reflect on what you are learning. While these are short, take the time to make these thoughtful and engaging for your classmates, who must read them. 

Learning is Difficult

Learning requires moving outside of your comfort zone. However, to far outside of your comfort zone you will reach a panic zone. Our goal is to find the sweet spot. Occasionally, I am going to ask for feedback but if that is not soon enough please let me know through email or in-person if you are left in your comfort zone or panic zone for more than a class period.   

Syllabus

• Review all sections of the syllabus.
• Provide an overview of each section.
• Briefly explain Bright Spots and Flow project.
• Describe my role as facilitator.

Sustainable Infrastructure 

1. Independently write, or draw, the definition of sustainable infrastructure. 
2. Discuss in groups. 
3. Discuss as a class.
4. Review my answer Links to an external site..

Discussion

Post your thoughts on sustainability (may be good, bad, indifferent) on Discussion 01 Thoughts on Sustainability.

Assignments/Quiz

Watch Charles Leadbeater talk on innovation Links to an external site. and take the Quiz 1 Education innovation in the slums.