Growing a Region of Changemakers Through Community-Based Participatory Action Research: A Journey to Be Shared

Abstract

ABSTRACT  

This article explores the vision, methods, process and outcomes associated with a three-year Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, Community College Social Innovation Fund research project, entitled Growing a Region of Changemakers. The resulting Manifesting as a Changemaker model and adjacent tools were co-created using findings from community-based participatory action research methods that involved comprehensive consultation and feedback. The research starting point adopted the changemaking skills and mindsets rigorously studied by the Ashoka Index team. Our resulting model and tool are designed to help pave the pathway to aid educators in early childhood education, K-12 and higher education to incorporate changemaking into the curriculum. The creation of the instrument, and accompanying resources, was informed by a Changemaker Research Circle (advisory group), data gathered in focus groups led by research analyst students, and feedback from conferences and events that included students, educators, community employers, and regional change leaders who shared insights during the process. The "Growing a Region of Changemakers" project has brought together passionate minds to shape the future of social change in our region in Central Ontario and anywhere else we can impact. By connecting key constituents and dedicated educators through practical tools and dissemination activities this project will continue to impact our college and our broader communities through the tools and resources created in the project.