Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/makingprogress
## Course Review: "Making Progress Teach-Out" on Coursera ### Overview The "Making Progress Teach-Out" is a thought-provoking course offered on Coursera that invites learners to explore the multifaceted concept of progress, particularly in relation to public spaces and memory. The course poses essential questions: What does “progress” really mean? How can we differentiate between advancement and regression in our communities? And how can we engage with our surroundings to reflect on this idea? This course isn't just an academic exercise; it's a call to action for individuals to actively observe, analyze, and contribute to the evolution of their neighborhoods and cities. It encourages attendees to reflect on their personal experiences and perceptions concerning progress in the areas where they live. ### Course Structure The course is structured into two immersive weeks that guide participants through the investigations of progress: #### Week 1: Defining Progress In the first week, learners delve into the definition of progress. This involves examining historical and contemporary perspectives on the conceptualizations of advancement. The curriculum includes engaging lectures, discussion forums, and reflective assignments that encourage deep self-exploration. Participants will engage with case studies on community transformations and how these developments affect collective and individual identities. #### Week 2: Observing Progress in Our Communities The second week focuses on applying the lens of progress to participants' local environments. Guided by prompts and discussion questions, learners are encouraged to analyze changes in their neighborhoods, visit local sites, and reflect upon their findings. This not only enhances observational skills but also fosters a sense of connection to the community. Participants will be tasked with considering how historical narratives and public memory influence the perception of progress. ### Review "Making Progress Teach-Out" stands out for its interactive nature and its emphasis on real-world applications. Rather than being a passive learning experience, the course invites active participation, making it suitable for anyone interested in urban development, sociology, or community engagement. The incorporation of community exploration into the course encourages learners to step outside their homes and engage with the richness of their surroundings. Participants can expect a range of multimedia resources, including videos, readings, and community forums, that promote diverse perspectives on progress and its implications. The format and accessibility of the Teach-Out cater to learners of all backgrounds, ensuring that everyone can participate meaningfully. ### Recommendations I highly recommend "Making Progress Teach-Out" for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of community engagement and the dynamics of progress. Here are a few key reasons why you should consider enrolling: 1. **Rethink Progress**: The course challenges traditional notions of what progress means, making it relevant in today’s rapidly changing world. 2. **Local Connection**: It fosters a sense of belonging and highlights the importance of local history and memory in shaping communities. 3. **Self-Reflection**: The course promotes introspection, pushing individuals to evaluate their biases and beliefs about progress within their own lives and spaces. 4. **Community Engagement**: By encouraging active participation in local environments, the course nurtures civic responsibility and engagement. 5. **Collaborative Learning**: The discussion forums provide excellent opportunities for learners to share insights and learn from one another, enhancing the educational experience. In conclusion, the "Making Progress Teach-Out" on Coursera is not just a course but a transformative experience. It bridges personal reflection, communal observation, and theoretical exploration of progress, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in making a difference in their community through thoughtful engagement and action. Don't miss this opportunity to redefine progress within your context—enroll today!
Week 1
WEEK 2What is “progress”? How do we decide when we’re moving forward and not taking steps backward? And how do we explore the idea of progress around public sites of memory? This Teach-Out is an invitation to think about what progress means, and how you can look for it wherever you are—in your city, community, or neighborhood—and reflect upon your own ideas about the place you live in. Changes in the built environment of our communities are themselves the result of human actions and intentions, such
offers new perspective in apprehending our notions of progress and being progressive.