Our certain future?

The transformation we have to have

Abstract

Our future is not uncertain. What is certain that there will be a major transformation in the way people live and work, and our planet as we know it will become a very different place. Climate change, population growth and critically low levels of non-renewable energy sources are three key factors that are shaping our future. We do, however, have a degree of control over that future - if we are proactive in our transformation.

The action we take will influence that certain future. Firstly, action towards transformation will need to take place at two levels - local and global. Secondly, action will need to take place in two time frames: immediate and long term. Immediate actions include what we do every day in the ways in which we work and study and live our lives. For the long term transformation, attitudinal and behavioural changes are required. At Charles Sturt University one initiative that has the potential to make a significant long term difference is the CSU Curriculum Renewal Program. The curriculum students study is the beginning of the transformation in attitude and behaviour that will determine the path they choose. Through education, via technology and the curriculum, we have the potential to shape students’ learning experiences students and to prepare them for their roles in effecting the transformation we have to have.