Learning groups can take many forms, such as:

• Regularly scheduled presentations with a speaker or panel.
• On-going learning groups of individuals who meet regularly and have a "curriculum" focusing on various aspects of sustainability. See Tips for forming a learning group.
• Informal learning groups formed as interest arises on topics chosen by a convener who organizes the group. The format is chosen to fit the need and can include discussions, field trips, activities, events, etc.

It's rewarding to learn with others, and we encourage you to join or create
learning groups of interest to you. Here are some examples of SSC learning
groups from past years:

• Small and large group discussions with Bill Moyer about his models of social change.
• A series of small group discussions on the role of grief in transformation leading to understanding the Transformation Cycle.
  
• A twice-monthly "salon" for MASH Workshop graduates to connect and share information, ideas, resources, and feelings, exploring sustainability issues and tools for transformation with an emphasis on experiential learning and personal life changes.
• A wide range of discussions in many venues about Cultural Creatives, including talks with the authors Sherry Anderson and Paul Ray.

What do YOU want to learn about? These are some of the topics people have expressed interest in.

• Exploring alternative energy sources for the home and vehicles.
• What are the leverage points for changing the systems in our culture?
• What is needed to build an "intentional community" such as an intentional learning, living or working community?

We are here to help. Contact one of the coordinators of SSC to discuss any
questions you have about forming or joining a group. Or, just wade in and
let us know what you learn!

Announcements about the learning groups can be posted on the SSC e-group and web site calendar. Electronic discussions for the various learning groups will occur in other venues. We also encourage you to share your learnings with others outside the group in various ways (see below).

Tips for forming a Learning Group

How would you like to learn with others? Once you have decided what it is
you want to learn about, there is the question of how to go about it. Here
are some initial issues and questions to consider when forming a learning
group.

• Co-convening--Consider teaming up with someone else, especially initially, to help form a group.
• Size Matters--What size would be best for your group? Different activities and topics lend themselves to different size groups.
• Who to invite?--Do you want to offer an open invitation to everyone, or
  specifically invite individuals? If your group is open, decide if you want
  to keep it open indefinitely or close it at a certain point.
• How much is enough?--How long do you want to meet for and with what frequency?
• Robert's Rules of Order or NOT--How do you want to structure your group and what type of facilitation do you want?
• Who does what?--What are the various roles that need to be fulfilled within the group (i.e. facilitator, host, food provider, participants, etc.).

Sharing what we learn:

By sharing what we learn, we all benefit from the learning community. There
are a number of options such as writing a report to the SSC e-group list,
talking to other people, or starting a project, workshop, or activity based on what you have learned. Sometimes having a goal such as a producing a
pamphlet, exhibit or essay can help give form to your learning, while helping to build a shared understanding and knowledge base within our community. Don't be shy; let others know what you learn.

Other things to keep in mind...

• Food is always a good idea.
• Don't forget about learning by seeing, listening, moving, and doing.
• HAVING FUN COUNTS!