Chapter Summaries
Chapter 1: Asset Stocks and Pain Points
In this chapter, we introduce the concept of asset stocks as a foundation for human well-being, emphasizing the importance of understanding both natural and man-made asset stocks. We explore the idea of the flow of these asset stocks and how disruptions can create pain points for characters in literature. By using an iceberg model to analyze novels, students delve into events, patterns of behavior, underlying structures, and mental models to uncover bottlenecks in the flow of assets. Through examining stories such as Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye, students gain a deeper understanding of systemic barriers and inequalities that contribute to characters' experiences. This chapter lays the groundwork for students to engage with complex societal issues and to use literary analysis as a tool for understanding and addressing these challenges.
Chapter 2: Strategy Analysis-The Literary Productivity Frontier
In Chapter 2, students explore the concept of the "Literary Productivity Frontier" within the NewComm framework, analyzing characters' strategies in navigating their access to asset stocks. By examining the balance between abundant resources and mere survival, students develop a deeper understanding of characters' motivations, challenges, and the strategies they employ to overcome systemic barriers. Using Sandra Cisneros’ novel A House on Mango Street as a guide, this chapter encourages critical thinking about characters' strategic use of assets and grassroots innovation, fostering empathy and empowering students to apply these lessons in their own lives and communities.
Chapter 3: Community Research
Moving beyond literary analysis, this chapter emphasizes the importance of real-world community research. Students explore organizations working to solve community concerns and examine how asset stocks are being utilized to promote social impact. By identifying barriers and evaluating strategies employed by marginalized communities, learners develop critical thinking and analytical skills to navigate and overcome systemic obstacles.
Chapter 4: Intervention Design
The fourth chapter focuses on the process of designing, refining, and executing a social impact project. Students form a hypothesis, refine it through research and consultation, and develop an intervention based on the refined hypothesis and mission-aligned budget. By integrating literary analysis skills and focusing on measurable qualities, students create interventions that ensure equitable access to one or more asset stocks for the communities they serve.
Chapter 5: Implementation and Evaluation Feedback (coming soon)
This concluding chapter highlights the process of implementing and evaluating a social impact project. Students execute their intervention, gather feedback from stakeholders and participants, evaluate the results, and refine the project based on the feedback. By actively engaging with the target community and employing an iterative approach, students create lasting, positive change and contribute to a broader understanding of the issues they addressed, enhancing the effectiveness of their interventions in promoting equitable access to asset stocks.