Chapter: Learning Objectives

As we embark on this journey to explore and utilize the tool “Mission Possible: Picking up after my Bestie!” from the “Placemaking for Inclusion” initiative, it is essential to set clear learning objectives. By the end of this course, participants will have developed competencies that not only empower them to address the specific issue of pet waste but also to apply these skills more broadly in their efforts to create inclusive and engaging environments.

Here are the learning objectives, mapped to the competences from the “Placemaking for Inclusion Competence Framework”:

1. Creating Environments

   • Understand the fundamental principles of placemaking and their application in creating inclusive, engaging, and sustainable environments.
   • Develop the ability to assess community needs and to envision and plan placemaking activities that address those needs, including practical logistics and resource management.
   • Learn to execute a placemaking initiative that enhances communal spaces and encourages a sense of ownership and pride among community members.

2. Using Your Superpowers

   • Identify and cultivate personal strengths and skills that contribute to successful placemaking, such as communication, leadership, and organizational abilities.
   • Encourage and facilitate collaboration, harnessing the diverse superpowers of all participants to create a multifaceted and effective team.
   • Reflect on personal growth and the development of new skills throughout the process of planning and executing the placemaking activity.

3. Critical Thinking

   • Analyze the environmental impact of pet waste on urban communities and the effectiveness of various intervention strategies.
   • Apply critical thinking to identify the root causes of the pet waste problem and to evaluate the social attitudes and behaviors that contribute to it.
   • Critique the effectiveness of the “Mission Possible” initiative post-implementation and consider ways to measure its impact and to refine the approach for future projects.

By achieving these objectives, learners will be able to:

• Apply practical skills in creating and improving environments using the tools and strategies of placemaking.
• Utilize their inherent strengths and develop new competences to lead and inspire others in community projects.
• Employ critical thinking to understand complex community issues and to design interventions that are thoughtful, impactful, and sustainable.

The course will guide participants through various activities designed to meet these objectives, including interactive lessons, hands-on projects, and reflective exercises. Participants will leave the course not only with a new set of skills and knowledge but also with the confidence and motivation to apply them within their own communities to create positive change.