Learning with the Fang

Last night I had the privilege of helping out with the online bits of the launch of the Environment Institute.

This morning, on my way to work, I had time to listen carefully to this podcast from Institute Director, Professor Mike Young. Mike’s vision includes a notion of three ‘Revolving Doors’ through which scientists connected with the Institute can engage with Goverment, Business and the wider Community to figure out pragmatic solutions to some of the big challenges we all face, together.

1. A revolving door with Government – both Federal and State through which the Institute aims not only to ensure that political leaders are armed with the latest information but through which scientists can roll up their sleeves and work on pragmatic solutions to real world issues.
2. A revolving door with Business – through which true partnerships are forged with a view to exploiting Adelaide and South Australia’s unique position to prototype and deliver world beating solutions, products and opportunities.
3. A revolving door with the wider Community – engaging in lengthy and sometimes vigorous debate so that difficult solutions to complex issues can be implemented and optimised against a wide array of stakeholder viewpoints.

I am particularly excited and optimistic about the potential for ’social media’ tools and practices to add an online dimension to the Environment Institute that effectively delivers meaningful connections and ‘revolving doors’ through which Professor Young’s lofty goals may be reached. Please connect with us and join the ongoing conversation by subscribing to various blogs, podcasts and other goodness you find a adelaide.edu.au/environment.

Catch you in the comments…

Fang – Mike Seyfang

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