Description
“Social change agents work to make an impact in the world on a local and global level” (Walden University, n.d.-c). Effective agents of social change tend to demonstrate similar skills, including the ability to advocate for others, work with policy makers and stakeholders, identify the complex relationships of systems, and apply research to meet the needs to effect positive social change. Excellent listening and communication skills, as well as observational skills, provide the necessary information to reflect on the current perspectives of participants. Those same skills are necessary for effective collaboration and engaging other change makers to join your cause. In this Discussion, you will explore the key skills or knowledge areas of effective social change agents and consider them in light of your project and applied practice agency.
Select one key skill or knowledge area from the list below that most directly informs the project you have selected at your applied practice agency.
Scholarship – Learning to apply and communicate about research, or to do research to help effect social change
Systems Thinking – Learning to explore the complex, systemic interrelationships underlying social change issues
Reflection – Learning to deeply consider the perspectives of self and others and the role of such perspectives in the social change process
Collaboration – Learning to communicate, collaborate, and work with other stakeholders, experts, and community members
Advocacy – Learning to become an effective, positive voice to raise awareness for actions to address needs for social change
Practice – Learning the nuts and bolts of planning, executing, and evaluating social change projects and activities
Civic and Political Engagement – Learning to work with policy makers at all levels of government and with public and private organizations to affect rules, laws, and policies
Ethics – Learning to effect social change within a compassionate, caring, and respectful perspective
BY DAY 4 OF WEEK 6
Post a comprehensive response to the following:
Describe your applied practice facility, including the mission, vision, and values.
Describe the project that you are working toward during your applied practice experience.
Identify the skill or knowledge area that you selected from the list and explain why you chose that area.
Explain the applicability of your chosen skill or knowledge area to the project that you are working on during your applied practice experience.
Describe how your project could positively impact social change.
