How animals enhance health and resilience of the land
Our responsibility and the diverse role of animals
Course description
We will explore the world of animals in their variety, diversity and context. What understanding is needed from human beings so that we can support animals in their natural contribution to the health and diversity of the land? With biodynamic agriculture as a basis we will spend four weeks in the wonder-filled world of animals, both wild and domesticated, appreciating and recognising the movement and life that they bring to us and the earth.
All people working in any aspect of biodynamic, organic or environmental organizations are highly welcome. As in-depth course it addresses mainly people who already have some previous knowledge and are connected to the organic/biodynamic movement. A basic interest in the anthroposophical background, as well as the will to explore the subject further, should be present.
Next Date
4th September - 25th September 2023
Course leader & main contributors
Johannes Wirz
Studied molecular biology (Bio II) at the University of Basel. Scientific collaborator at the Research Institute at the Goetheanum. Developmental biology work on amphibians (R. temporaria, T. alpestris, T. helveticus). Various work on insects, including single-animal observations of butterflies (in particular M. galathea) in different biotopes, as well as projects on bee health and beekeeping. Another focus of the work is genetics; in particular the relationship between genotype and phenotype.
Alysoun Bolger
I am a biodynamic teacher, certifier and farmer’s wife. Having been involved in the training of biodynamic farmers, inspectors and consumers for the last 20 years, I now work for the Biodynamic Federation Demeter International on the Executive Board. I very much enjoy bringing a Goethean approach to applied practical work in agriculture.
Jean-Michel Florin
Studied agriculture and nature conservation, coordinator of the biodynamic association in France (MABD) and trainer for bd farming, author and editor of books and journals, expert and speaker on the subjects: Goethean approach of nature, medicinal plants, landscape, viticulture, etc. Since 2010 Head of the Section for Agriculture.
Program and learning objectives
Learning objectives
The world and wonder of the animals
About the relation of animals with plants, soil and human being
The diverse tasks of the animals
Animal husbandry with respect and dignity
How do we design biodiversity
The course lasts four weeks, 7 live sessions à 2h with a maximum weekly workload of 6h.
It is structured using various components and designed in such a way that it can easily be attended on a part-time basis. Practical exercises as well as self-study and peer group learning accompany and connect the regular live sessions during the four weeks of the course.
Practical Information
Costs
Participation fee: CHF 300
Participation for middle income countries + students: CHF 120
Participation fee for low income countries and students from middle income countries: CHF 65
https://datahelpdesk.worldbank.org/knowledgebase/articles/906519-world-bank-country-and-lending-groups
Language
English
Required learning material
The Agriculture Course, GA 327, Rudolf Steiner, Lectures 7
online version (english)
Technical requirements
Desktop, Laptop or Tablet Computer with up-to-date browser and, microphone & video camera
Zoom Application (Zoom Client for Meetings, free download: https://zoom.us/download#client_4meeting)
Telegram app for in-between conversion with other students: https://telegram.org/
Participation terms
All people working in any aspect of biodynamic, organic or environmental organizations are highly welcome. As in-depth course it addresses mainly people who already have some previous knowledge and are connected to the organic/biodynamic movement. A basic interest in the anthroposophical background, as well as the will to explore the subject further, should be present.