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Motivation to Teach Social Action:
Learning from others and sharing with others.
Course Description:
This course focuses on two issues relevant to the wicked problem of gun violence – its etiology or origin and the needed action to address this problem. Towards these ends, the class will begin with a "starting where you are" phase that serves as an introduction to the focal topic of the class. The second portion of the class is "understanding the perspectives of others." The third and final phase of the class is "sharing what we have learned." These phases will result in the collection of fieldnotes and assist in student journaling - allowing students to "collect, analyze, and interpret data." The knowledge gained over the course of the semester will enhance student's cultural (poly) consciousness around the focal topic and culminate in the Fall 2026 Central Virginia Looking, Listening, and Learning Exchange (Fall 2026 CVLLLE) that brings together policymakers, practitioners, homicide survivors, violence interrupters and others to ideate and implement policies, practices, and programs.
Taught By:
Brian Williams
Professor of Public Policy & Founder/Director of the Public Engagement in Governance Looking, LIstening, & Learning Laboratory
Frank Batten School of Leadership & Public Policy
University of Virginia
Read profile here.