MichiganX: Storytelling for Social Change

MichiganX: Storytelling for Social Change

by The University of Michigan

Course Description

This course, offered by MichiganX, focuses on utilizing storytelling as a powerful tool for social change. It aims to develop skills necessary for crafting compelling stories that can sway audiences and trigger attitudinal shifts. The instructional approach involves analyzing video interviews with experts, viewing actual storytelling performances, and engaging in practical story-writing geared towards fostering social transformations. The course is beneficial for understanding how empathy and narrative perspective can influence audiences through poignant character development.

What Students Will Learn

  • The use of storytelling by professionals to initiate social change.
  • Techniques for crafting stories that incorporate multiple perspectives to enhance social impact.
  • Skills in identifying target audiences, communicating effectively, and developing protagonists who carry the story's message.
  • The role of empathy and personal belief systems in shaping both the storytelling process and audience reception.
  • <li>Employment of visual storytelling techniques to bolster the message.

Pre-requisites or Skills Necessary

There are no prerequisites for this course, making it accessible to anyone interested in learning how to use storytelling for social change.

Course Outline

  • Understanding the role of storytelling in social change.
  • Developing empathetic characters and engaging storylines.
  • Crafting and delivering messages with impact through story.
  • Exploring diverse perspectives and their contributions to rich, compelling narratives.
  • <li>Integrating visual elements into storytelling to enhance communication.

Who This Course Is For

  • Professional who work in non-profit and commercial sectors.
  • Teams involved in the entertainment industry.
  • Writers and enthusiasts of the arts.
  • Community workers and social activists.
  • Members of marketing and development teams.
  • Educators and public speakers looking to enhance their communicative impact.
  • Customer service representatives aiming to improve engagement through stories.

Application of Learned Skills in the Real World

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to craft and narrate effective stories that can profoundly influence public discourse and personal views. These skills are valuable in a wide array of fields, from nonprofit initiatives to commercial marketing campaigns, enriching engagements by making them more emotionally resonant and impactful.

Similar Courses
Course Page   MichiganX: Storytelling for Social Change