Awareness

Issues

Research

Players

Solutions

Action

Assessment

Evaluation

 

The 8-Step Action Plan

Our 8-step problem solving process allows students to effectively implement projects by developing their critical thinking skills. This type of learning necessitates personal involvement. Students invest themselves in the process because, through experience, they become a part of the big picture. Teaching and learning using The 8-Step Action Plan recognizes students as integral players within a world of change.

Our experience has shown that using an 8-step problem solving process, students develop skills which go beyond the mere memorization of information. They learn to make decisions and take actions after proper problem solving, not just jumping to action without following appropriate steps. They learn how to narrow their focus and identify important players on all sides of an issue. They learn how to create an action plan, and how to evaluate and assess the wide ranging effects that plan has throughout the community.

Awareness opens a student's eyes and heart to an issue. In-depth research partners students with adults representing a diversity of occupations and viewpoints. Students realize that realistic solutions are a result of teamwork and that each player brings his or her own perspective to the table. Taking action is therefore the culmination of perseverance, frustration, re-evaluation and communication. Finally, students assess and evaluate the immediate and long-term effects of their efforts.

This type of learning invites -- even necessitates -- personal involvement. Students invest themselves in the process because, through experience, they become part of the picture. Teaching and learning via the 8-Step Action Plan recognizes students as integral players within the world of change.

TOP

	Step 1 - Awareness Learn all you can about local resource management issues, obstacles and options. Get the big picture! - UP
	Step 2 - Issues Identify issues that are both problems and opportunities. How can you address these issues? What is possible? - UP
	Step 3 - Research Investigate the facts about the issues you choose to address. Dig in and learn more. Ask questions! - UP
	Step 4 - Players Identify and communicate with people who hold the keys to working with your issues. Discuss concerns, values, beliefs and needs. Form Partnerships! - UP
	Step 5 - Solutions Explore possible ways to address the issues and solve the problems. Formulate an action plan. - UP
	Step 6 - Action Put your awareness into action. Include all key players and use your research on the issues. Implement your action plan! - UP
	Step 7 - Assessment Check your progress as you take action. Record and reflect on success and obstacles. Keep in touch with key players. Make changes as your plan proceeds. - UP
	Step 8 - Evaluation Assess and document the overall outcome of your efforts. Share your findings with others. Use what you learn to sustain tour project over time! - UP