Background to Beekeeping: Start with Why!
What you'll learn
- Explain the surprising multiple benefits of beekeeping
- Explain the history and current status of world bees and beekeeping
- Explain the broad approaches to beekeeping
- Encourage you to make your beekeeping unique to your particular skills and interests
- Give an overview of world production and trade in honey
- Decide if beekeeping is something you want to start
- Give the first key step on your journey to becoming a successful beekeeper
Requirements
- You need to be able to use a computer at beginner level to view the course content
- No beekeeping experience necessary - just your interest in bees and beekeeping!
Description
Take this course as one of your first courses in beekeeping and it will set you on the right path in beekeeping for years to come. Beekeeping has very many benefits/potential benefits. Established beekeepers may not even be aware of all the benefits they, their family and community are getting from their beekeeping hobby or enterprise. This course will give you an excellent overview of the history and current state of bees and beekeeping around the world, the honey trade, why you should get into beekeeping, how you can benefit personally from beekeeping and how your local community and the planet will thank you as well. The course will give you the WHY of beekeeping which is essential before you get lost in the detail of the HOW.
Remember reasons always come first and once you understand why you should start beekeeping you will always figure out the how. Having a thorough understanding of the WHY of beekeeping is absolutely essential to your success as a beekeeper. The course ends by giving you a key step on the road to learning the HOW of beekeeping appropriate to where you live in the world.
The course will also help you to decide how you want to approach beekeeping in your particular context and how you might bring your own unique skills and interests to beekeeping to make it your very own. This big picture view of beekeeping is really important because it is so easy to get lost in detail which might or might not be appropriate to where you live (just try searching for beekeeping videos on YouTube and you will find so many videos it is hard to know which ones are useful or appropriate!).
In developing this course I draw on a lifetime of beekeeping experience in Ireland and in Africa.
In addition to other resources and links included with the course there are two free downloadable beekeeping books (PDF format) written by the course creator for your further reference.
The course has been revised and updated for 2021/2022.
Who this course is for:
- Anyone interested in beekeeping for beginners
- Anyone interested in learning about bees and bee keeping
- Anyone interested in having a better understanding of the beekeeping industry & honey trade
- Anyone interested in understanding the benefits of bees and beekeeping
- Anyone interested in starting a small scale beekeeping enterprise
- Anyone wondering if beekeeping is a good hobby to start
- Existing beekeepers who want to broaden their understanding of beekeeping
Instructor
Welcome to My Learning Journey.
I'm Dr. Thomas Carroll, and I'm excited to be your guide in mastering the skills needed for the future—from navigating the complexities of the 4th Industrial Revolution to the serene and sustainable practice of beekeeping.
My Areas of Expertise:
Futures Thinking: Equip yourself with the tools to anticipate and navigate future trends and challenges.
Future of Work: Stay ahead in your career by understanding the evolving nature of work.
Future Skills: Develop critical skills for the 4th Industrial Revolution, including technology proficiency, creativity, and critical thinking.
Beekeeping: Dive into the world of beekeeping, learning everything from the basics to advanced techniques essential for environmental sustainability.
My Educational Background:
BSc in Agricultural Science - University College Dublin
MSc in Entrepreneurship - University of Stirling, UK
MSc in Environmental Science - University College Dublin
PhD in Rural Development - University College Dublin
Certifications & Ongoing Learning:
In my commitment to lifelong learning, I hold an online Career Coach and Navigator Professional Certificate, a Certificate in Futures Thinking, and a Certificate in Climate Change Education, among other certifications that continually expand and deepen my expertise.
My Passions:
Environmental Sustainability: A lifelong advocate for preserving ecological balance.
Beekeeping: An avid beekeeper with a deep connection to nature, bringing practical lessons from the hive to the classroom.
My Teaching Philosophy:
As a dedicated lifelong learner, I believe in the power of continuous education to keep pace with our fast-changing world. My courses are designed to be engaging and practical, blending my diverse academic and professional experiences to provide you with a fresh learning experience.
What You’ll Gain from My Courses:
Future-Ready Skills: Equip yourself with essential skills and knowledge to thrive in tomorrow’s job market.
Practical Insights: Apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, ensuring you stay competitive.
Innovative Thinking: Foster a forward-thinking mindset to adapt to the challenges of the future.
Beekeeping Mastery: Achieve a deep understanding and hands-on skills in beekeeping, from starting your first hive to maintaining a thriving colony.
Why Choose to Learn with Me?
Diverse Experience: My eclectic background offers unique perspectives that enrich your learning journey.
Engaging Teaching Style: I make learning enjoyable and impactful, ensuring you walk away with valuable insights and practical skills.
Passion for Nature: My deep connection to the environment, especially through beekeeping, brings a holistic approach to my teaching.
Let's Embark on This Journey Together!
Thank you for considering my courses. Whether you're here to future-proof your career or to explore the rewarding world of beekeeping, I look forward to guiding you on this exciting learning journey.
See you in class
Dr. Thomas Carroll