The framework for Street Challenge is place-based experiential learning that combines a mix of approaches emanating from experiential education and places them within an ecosystem context. Should the instructor desire, it may also have a service-learning component. The pedagogy is scalable - applications can range from a single class lesson or workshop to the pedagogy forming the basis of a semester-long course.
To implement Street Challenge:
Regardless of the scope of the Street Challenge approach that is used, a number of core learning objectives may be achieved:
To implement Street Challenge:
- The instructor chooses a local neighbourhood as a focal place (or perhaps more than one for larger classes)
- The instructor selects elements of Street Challenge to deploy a set of exercises, lessons, and assignments.
- Ideally, at least some part of Street Challenge should require students to visit the neighbourhood and interact with community stakeholders.
Regardless of the scope of the Street Challenge approach that is used, a number of core learning objectives may be achieved:
- To describe a community ecosystem;
- To appreciate the complexity and variety of the many types of stakeholders within that community;
- To map and categorize the businesses, institutions, and main stakeholders in a neighbourhood;
- To investigate and understand how the networks of stakeholders interact with each other;
- To develop competency as an actor building a stronger community ecosystem and/or creating value for a community;
- To discover the interaction between the growth of an individual enterprise, and the resources and success of the ecosystem as a whole.