Why use this tool?

The Iceberg Model helps to understand the root causes of what we “see” in the world. For instance, it helps us move from the various sustainability issues and crises we see, and the values, assumptions and beliefs we and others hold, and which underlie these issues and crises. Our individual and collective values are important dimensions to explore in this context.

Activity 3.4.1. Exploring the iceberg

Overview 

The iceberg model helps to understand i) our patterns of behaviour, ii) systems and structures, and iii) the inner and cultural dimensions that underlie a given situation, such as the climate crisis. The iceberg model can help to analyse the crisis and at the same time what inner and cultural change is needed to move to climate resilience and regeneration (e.g., as part of a Futures Literacy Laboratory). 

Curriculum linkage

  • Most topics, including Science (biology), Physical Education & Health, Civics & Social Studies.

Competences built

  • Self-reflection, critical thinking, systems thinking, exploratory thinking, perspective taking.

Basic info

  • Age range:  6+ 
  • Duration: 10-90min
  • Group size: Open 
  • Level of difficulty: Intermediate and advanced
  • Materials/space required: None, but a picture/illustration of an iceberg might be helpful
  • Location: Indoors 
  • Engagement of external stakeholders: Not necessary

Prep Work

Familiarise yourself with the iceberg model. Prepare an image or slide with an iceberg and identify good examples for explaining and illustrating the Iceberg Model, particularly examples that relate to learners’ interests, experiences and needs. Some of these can be shared in the class to support learners during their brainstorming.

Steps  in the activity 

  1. Above/below water
  2. Diving underwater

Steps

Step 1 : Above/below water

Introducing the iceberg model in simple words for young audiences through specific examples.

The explanation has to be adapted based on the age group: In simple terms, the Iceberg Model illustrates that what we can see–the part of the iceberg that is visible above the surface of the water–are the events or crises that define our world today. But much more – around 90% – of the iceberg is invisible to us. In human terms, what is hidden beneath the surface are the underlying aspects (our patterns of behaviour, the systems and structures we live in, and our inner dimensions or mindsets and culture) that are responsible for creating the events or crises that characterise our world today. 

What we call here inner dimensions, mindsets and culture include our individual and collective beliefs, values, worldviews and associated inner capacities (cognitive, emotional, relational).

There are many simple examples for understanding the iceberg model, such as using “catching a cold” as something we can see above the water and then analyse, which can help learners understand its essence (see figure).

Source: Iceberg Model – Ecochallenge.org

Step 2 : Diving underwater

After explaining the iceberg model and its essence, bring the discussion to sustainability challenges, such as climate change and ask the learners to apply the Iceberg Model to this collective challenge. 

Possible instructions to the learners: Select a recent event that strikes you as urgent, important or interesting. Then write the event (what is observable about the event) at the top of the blank iceberg and work your way down through the underlying patterns, systems and inner dimensions or mindsets, adding as many as you can think of. It can also be useful to move up and down between levels as you think more about the event.

Good questions to ask include: What is happening? What are the patterns/trends? What has influenced the patterns? What underlying values, assumptions or beliefs do you or others have?  In addition, it is important to discuss on which level common measures to address the event or crisis often focus on.  If we design measures that address the deepest levels of the iceberg, they address deep leverage points for change. Whilst it is key to address these deep leverage points of change, it is important to highlight that ALL levels of the iceberg need to be addressed if we want to support transformation towards climate-resilience and regeneration. In other words, it requires addressing immediate needs and, at the same time, nurturing shifts in behaviour, systems and structures, culture and individual mindsets that underlie the climate crisis and related sustainability challenges.

Here is an example of ways in which the iceberg model can be used to work on collective issues, like climate change, based on the causal layered analysis work of Sohail Inayatullah. 

Possible associations with other tools 

This exercise can be done to explore beliefs, values and worldviews associated with the climate crisis and find ways to increase climate resilience and regeneration, for instance as part of a Futures Literacy Laboratory.

Adaptations

We invite you to adapt this activity to the specific needs of your learners, including by taking into account their neurodiversity. When adapting tools and activities for neurodivergent learners, please note it is not about treating others how you want to be treated, but how they want to be treated. Ask, listen, and stay open to different ways of learning and engaging. 

References

This activity was designed by Lund University with some additions by One Resilient Earth. 

Many theories that explain how inner development relates to climate change and other sustainability challenges are related to the Iceberg Model. During the past few years, the emergent field of inner transformation for sustainability has advanced related knowledge, education and practice.

Simple explanations and applications of the Iceberg Model:

Theoretical foundations of inner transformation for sustainability:

See also other publications, presentations and podcast published by The Contemplative Sustainable Futures Program: www.contemplative-sustainable-futures.com

 

Download the Activity Card here