The dynamics of connecting universities, non-governmental organizations and community members by means of academic projects directed at people in need

Abstract

In this article we discuss an action research experience that took place from 2002 to 2015. We analyze the inception and progress of several project-based learning-centered academic courses that were aimed at developing the project management skills of graduate and undergraduate students. The experience involved approximately 1800 students from two universities and 40 community partners. The students developed real-life projects on behalf of institutions and non-governmental organizations located in the area that help people in need; we refer to these agencies as ‘community partners.’ We analyze the development of the course from a systemic perspective, making use of causal loop diagrams in order to understand the main driving dynamics. We discuss the results achieved by these projects and the benefits brought to the community partners. We also present testimony from the community partners themselves. We conclude by presenting the lessons we learned over the years we have been running this course.

Keywords:

• Action research
• project-based learning
• systems thinking
• systemic action research
• course development
• university/community relationship

Notes

1. See www.projectbasedlearning.com.br. Accessed 15 February 2016.