This is a course for anyone interested in or curious about co-ops and the co-operative movement. We will start with an introduction to the wider world of Co-operatives and how that world links with your corner Co-op Shop. We shall then explore some of the flaws and shortcomings in the mainstream economy. Following on will then be a run through of the history and origins of the movement with an outline of the key differences between: Co-operative enterprises and their “standard model” counterparts, and “Producer” and “consumer” co-ops. The course will also explore a brief overview of the global picture.
Course aim
The main purpose is to raise awareness of the co-operative enterprise as a basis for rebuilding dysfunctional economies. How this may relate to individual and communal bootstrap initiatives to develop enterprise in their own localities.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Understand how the co-operative economy differs from the mainstream economy.
- Identify how the co-operative economy relates to your local Co-op Shop.
- Grasp what that difference in economies could mean locally, nationally, and globally.
- Comment generally on the overall state of the economy.
What else do I need to know?
View full course information sheet
