Glossary

Throughout the modules, you will see common terms related to changemaking. The glossary below defines how these terms are used in this context. The list below is not exhaustive, but we encourage you to learn more about specific changemaking terms using Georgian College’s Changemaker Definitions [PDF].

Changemaker

Someone who desires positive change in the world and, after gathering knowledge and resources, makes change happen.

Changemaking

Creating positive cultural, environmental, or social change.

Changemaker Campus

A university, college or campus belonging to a community of global leaders and institutions that work collectively to make social innovation and changemaking the new norm in higher education and beyond.

Changemaker Education

Strategies and analytical frameworks for social change. Ideal learning outcomes include:

• Critical reflection around changemaking experiences.
• Self-reflection and mindfulness.
• Global awareness and cultural understanding.
• Creativity and imagination.
• Human-centred values and behaviour, including respect and empathy.
• Teamwork.
• Ability to both lead and follow.
• Critical thinking and problemsolving skills

Community Service Learning

A teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and critical reflection to enrich the learning experience and strengthen communities.

Empathy

The ability to see and understand the world from someone else’s perspective; to put yourself in their shoes.

Experiential Learning

Learning by doing and reflecting on the experience.

Innovation

Finding new ways to solve existing problems.

Practicing Changemaking

The act of thinking, feeling, and doing empathy, teamwork, and shared leadership.

Shared Leadership

Everyone participates in the decision-making process as a leader.

Social Innovation

The creation of new ideas that resolve existing social, cultural, economic, and environmental challenges for the benefit of people and the planet; social innovation is systems-changing – it permanently alters the perceptions, behaviours and structures that gave rise to these challenges.

Teamwork

Individuals working together toward a shared or common goal through trust, sharing, collaboration, and empathy.