Sustainable Communities Skills and Knowledge Model
A key output of the research involved the creation of the Sustainable Communities Skills and Knowledge Model displayed above. This has been designed to serve as an analytical tool to assist community members in understanding:
- The role of skills and knowledge in the creation of sustainable communities
- The everyday life context of skills and knowledge for sustainable communities (i.e. the daily routines, practices, habits and responsibilities which are significant dimensions of a person’s engagement with sustainability initiatives)
- Pathways to addressing gaps and future needs for skills and knowledge for sustainability
It depicts the multiple layers of: skills, knowledge and learning required; the right combination of time, people and place; and the core principles of sustainability; all of which need to be brought together in the process of creating sustainable communities. It is important to note that the three layers (skills, context and sustainability) are interrelated and their relative importance will vary in different locations and over time. Nevertheless, the model serves as useful interrogative tool for exploring the multiple dimensions of skills and knowledge for sustainable communities. To access an explanation of the different layers of the model, click on the links to Skills, Context and Sustainability.
This model is accompanied by a Skills and Knowledge Guidance Note. This will be available for download in the New Year. The Guidance Note includes a series of reflective questions aimed at assisting community members to think about how to address sustainability skills and knowledge gaps in their own community. There is no single formula or ‘magic recipe’ for creating or maintaining successful sustainable communities. It is a dynamic process which requires flexibility and sensitivity to local needs and priorities. For this reason, we regard the accompanying Guidance Note as a ‘living document’ that will be regularly updated. We welcome feedback and contributions.
