Introduction

This section includes examples of individuals and groups mobilizing others to right an injustice or demand equitable response to their needs. Organizing is an ambitious form of civic participation because it entails seeing a project through until results are achieved. This can be particularly difficult for adult education programs because it requires a long-term commitment of resources – time, program support, etc. A benefit, though, is that it offers authentic opportunities for adult students to interact with the public world of organizations, communities and systems to get things done, and then to reflect on the results of their efforts. Along the way, they are probably engaged in all the other forms of civic participation – building community, demanding accountability, and educating others. They discover community resources and build relationships with allies. And they direct their own purposeful learning – that is, they evaluate a situation and then decide which skills need to be honed in order to get something done. Here are some questions to keep in mind as you review this section:

1. Assuming student interest in organizing, what other program support might be needed?
2. Why might a group begin an organizing project that will probably continue beyond the length of a class?
3. What are some strengths and limitations of organizing as a way to improve community?

EFF Common Activities

_X_ Gather, Analyze, and Use Information
_X_ Manage Resources
_X_ Work Within the Big Picture
_X_ Work Together
_X_ Provide Leadership
_X_ Guide and Support Others
_X_ Seek Guidance and Support from Others
_X_ Develop and Express Sense of Self
_X_ Respect Others and Value Diversity
_X__ Exercise Rights and Responsibilities
_X_ Create and Pursue Vision and Goals
_X_ Keep Pace with Change
_X_ Use Technology & Other Tools to Accomplish Goals

EFF Skills

Communication Skills
_X_ Read with Understanding
_X_ Convey Ideas in Writing
_X_ Speak So Others Can Understand
_X_ Listen Actively
_X_ Observe Critically

Decision Making Skills
_X_ Use Math to Solve Problems & Communicate
_X_ Solve Problems and Make Decisions
_X_ Plan

Interpersonal Skills
_X_ Cooperate with Others
_X_ Advocate and Influence
_X_ Resolve Conflict and Negotiate
_X_Guide Others

Lifelong Learning Skills
_X_ Take Responsibility for Learning
_X_ Reflect and Evaluate
_X_ Learn through Research
_X_ Use Information & Communication Technology