Megan Quinn sent through an article containing this quote from Karen Berney, a US-based community health consultant:

“The goal of Peak Oil education is to bring about change in people’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices,” Berney said. “To do so they must take ownership of the problem, and develop their own solutions.”

She added that adults learn best when they feel respected as responsible and self-directed learners, their knowledge and experience are valued, and they see how the information is relevant to their lives. 

Some wise advice.  And the outcome is not just that we learn more, but that we are approaching the issue in a way in which we can take initiative on developing responses.  As much as trying to get policy makers to respond to Peak Oil, writing an EDAP is about inspiring grassroots, organic, and unexpected responses.

I don't think it's necessarily the easiest thing to present information on Peak Oil, and inspire people to start working on solutions.  Sometimes I've felt like I've left people thinking 'oh he's the expert, I'll leave it with him to worry about,' or worse, that the whole issue is a bit overwhelming and depressing!  

I'm sure there are some workshop techniques, or interview methods which present open questions to stimulate us think about the problem and possible solutions from a personal perspective and our areas of expertise. 

Berney is one of the first graduates of the “Peak Oil Workshop for Community Leaders” organised by The Community Solution. Megan Quinn is the group's Outreach Director.