The Dark Times Academy, a new online education initiative founded by Kiwi community educators Mandy Henk and Byron Clark, is set to revolutionize the way working adults across New Zealand and beyond engage with critical topics. The academy aims to provide learners with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of the world, find their place in it, and become effective agents for positive social change.
One of the key aspects of the Dark Times Academy is its focus on making learning joyful again. In a time where the world is facing numerous challenges, the founders believe that rekindling a love for learning is essential. Mandy Henk, former CEO of Tohatoha Aotearoa Commons, emphasizes the importance of bringing joy back into the learning process, especially in these dark times that we are living through.
The teaching model employed by the Dark Times Academy is the ‚flipped classroom‘, which combines pre-recorded lectures with interactive Zoom meetings. This approach aims to make classes both fun and rigorous, providing participants with the opportunity to engage with expert tutors, ask questions, and share knowledge with their peers. Additionally, resources such as articles, videos, and podcasts are provided to enhance the learning experience.
What sets the Dark Times Academy apart is its unique business model. The academy uses a revenue-sharing model to ensure that instructors are fairly compensated and retain their intellectual property rights. This approach not only benefits the instructors but also creates a sense of community among learners and educators, fostering a shared love of learning and curiosity about the world.
The launch of the Dark Times Academy follows the success of previous online courses run through Tohatoha, including the Climate Disinformation Night School and the ‚A Bit Sus‘ schools education program. The first cohort of classes, starting in September, will cover a diverse range of topics such as AI in the Real World, Fighting Disinformation, Future Thriving, Throwing BRICS at Feminism, and A Pedagogy of Possibility.
Both Byron and Mandy are excited to bring their expertise to the Dark Times Academy and deliver outstanding online learning experiences. They encourage individuals to either register and join a class themselves or sponsor someone else to take a class, providing a way for everyone to contribute and spread knowledge.
Overall, the Dark Times Academy is poised to become a hub for community education on critical topics, offering learners the opportunity to engage with thought-provoking content and develop the skills needed to navigate an ever-changing world. With its innovative approach to online learning and commitment to fostering a sense of community, the academy is set to make a significant impact on the education landscape in New Zealand and beyond.