Themes

What are themes?

One key aspect of the Techne System is that the material it teaches is entirely objective, based in the real world. And for many people that’s perfectly enough to learn it effectively. But for some this might make the program a little dry. For that reason we’ve added Themes.

Themes are an entirely optional feature of the Techne System. They add a subjective element to the program without changing the actual content. This is very much like adding a picture to your computer’s desktop or your phone’s homescreen, or the vinyl wrap you might add to your car. They “dress up” the learning material in order to make it more fun and engaging.

What do themes look like?

Some themes are simple, and just change the names of the program and topics, but otherwise leave the rest of the material unchanged. Other themes are more involved, and completely rewrite the material through the lens or with the voice of the theme. These are more immersive and make you feel like you are in another world, whether that be far in the future, or in a land of a fantasy past.

For example, for a Star Trek theme, the program is called StarFleet Academy, and places the student in the role of a StarFleet cadet. Instead of learning Critical Thinking, you might learn Vulcan Logic. Instead of Communication Skills, it might be called Interstellar Diplomacy.

For a fantasy theme, the program might be called The Adventurer’s Guild. Instead of learning Emotion Management, you’d be trained with The Warrior’s Spirit. Instead of Science, you’d be learning Magic and Alchemy.

Themes change terminology and framing but preserve the underlying concepts. For example, when “Science” becomes “Magic and Alchemy” in the Adventurer’s Guild theme, you’re still learning the scientific method, evidence-based reasoning, and how to distinguish reliable from unreliable claims. The fantasy language makes it more engaging without changing what you actually learn.

What kind of themes are there?

At this stage in the program’s development (currently version 0.3), there are no themes that are fully developed and ready for use. That said, there are many ideas in various stages of development in the works. How many of these will be completed will depend on interest. Here are some examples:

StarFleet Academy: For fans of Star Trek. Enroll as a cadet to become a trained StarFleet officer, furthering the goals of the Federation.

Adventurer’s Guild: A fantasy theme for fans of the genre and fantasy role-playing games. Level up your skills as a warrior or wizard ready to take on any challenge.

Engineer’s Theme: This theme will help those with an interest or background in engineering apply their skills and talents to other aspects of their life, as well as find ways to help improve their communities, organizations, and the rest of society.

Military Theme: For current or former members of the military, or people with an interest in military culture. Learn how to harness military skills and discipline for overcoming barriers in your life and embarking on missions to help improve your community, organization, and society.

La Tadji: This theme uses religious language and metaphor for people who find meaning in that framework. It does not represent actual religious doctrine and maintains the program’s commitment to critical thinking and objectivity.

The Eldritch Society: For fans of H.P. Lovecraft and cosmic horror, this theme frames learning as delving into “forbidden knowledge” as a member of a secret society harnessing eldritch powers. Like all themes, this is purely aesthetic—the content remains grounded in evidence-based skills.

Are there any other themes?

As time goes on, more theme ideas will be proposed and developed according to interest and compatibility with the program’s goals.

Can I create my own theme?

If you have a theme idea, we’d love to hear it! Strong themes share certain characteristics: they’re engaging for a meaningful audience, they translate well across all topics and levels, and they maintain the program’s core principles.

Before developing a new theme, consider whether existing themes might work for you—joining an established theme helps build community around shared interests. But if you have an idea that fills a genuine gap or serves an underrepresented audience, reach out to discuss it. Theme development is collaborative, and your creativity could benefit many future learners.

Want to learn more?

Contact us on Mastodon at https://mindly.social/@hephaestus, or by e-mail at hephaestus(dot)techne(at)proton.me to learn more about themes in development. Let us know what interests you and what you think of what’s been developed so far. If you have ideas to add or other feedback, please feel free to share it. Remember that one of the most important elements of Techne is its improvement through community feedback and contribution. Your input helps make it better for everyone.