The course creates an urgent need for knowledge in all participants. The course requires analysis of situations, questions, and possible solutions. The course requires high level thinking skills and problem solving. Students do not all learn the same things, but specialize and share information. Learning occurs in a coherent social setting.
Students work together in groups, sharing information and decision making.
The course is 'open' to the wider community. Students contribute strengths and interests to the group project. The course is interdisciplinary, integrating the natural and social sciences. The course requires the integration of knowledge from many sources. Play and creativity are integral to the course.