Design For Change believes in a holistic approach to education. It seeks to empower children through a non-competitive learning environment where children are able to explore their unique educational possibilities. Design For Change believes that every child possesses the fundamental ingredients for “being the change they want to see in the world”. Each child has the right to voice their opinions on matters which affect them, and to be those opinions considered.
Design For Change believes in learning by observation. A child observing a particular situation will more easily become aware of what is happening in the child’s world. By teaching children about the many different ways they can be the change they want to see, Design For Change seeks to ensure that children are more successful when it comes to learning new things. Children learn best when they see and hear the things they are trying to learn.
Design For Change encourages parents to actively participate in their child’s learning experience. Parents are the most important influence in the child’s education. It is important for parents to learn how to make sure that the information they teach their children is age appropriate and to find ways to reinforce their child’s learning process. Design For Change encourages parents to encourage their child’s desire to learn, but also to make sure that the child’s learning experiences are not detrimental to the child’s development.
Design For Change works toward a vision of “Social Impact.” Social Impact is the goal of Design For Change to help educate individuals about the different ways they can “design” their communities and how their actions can positively impact others. This includes how to bring about change through change management practices, such as organizing an intervention to get a group of people talking and making changes at the community level. Design For Change seeks to empower people with the knowledge they need to create and sustain effective change programs, which in turn provides an opportunity for individuals to learn how to be the change they want to see in the world.
Children should be able to develop their own leadership skills and learn to be open and receptive to ideas. Children who are taught to listen and learn are more likely to share their ideas and opinions and engage in conversations which help others understand their thoughts. Learning these skills allows children to become involved in change at all levels of the organization.
Design for Change believes in the importance of a lifelong learning experience. Children have an opportunity to build relationships with their peers. Learning by example allows children to be leaders who can positively influence the learning of others. Design For Change encourages students to actively participate in the learning process and develop their own unique leadership skills.
