RURAL-URBAN ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAMS
What we feel is missing from online learning is propinquity (prə-pĭngˈkwĭ-tē). Which is:
• n. Proximity; nearness.
• n. Kinship.
• n. Similarity in nature.
The concept of social (or collaborative) learning refers to learning processes among a group of people who seek to improve a common situation and take action collectively. This understanding effectively extends experiential learning into social learning. By broadening their perspectives and taking collective action – people can become empowered.
This type of learning often occurs in classrooms that use a collaboration and discussion as tools for learning. Webinars use technology and can reach massive amounts of people. When it comes to webinars, where the viewer is passive and often alone, or isolated from conversations and resources, there is no opportunity to collaborate unless a chat feature is enabled. This feature is not conducive to synergetic conversation.
This project intends to combine physical in-class participation with virtual-in-class participation. This mean a primary classroom (PROXIMITY) of people will meet in a location. Other hubs of classrooms (DISTANCE PROXIMITY) and solo-learners (DISTANCE) will connect to the primary classroom where the presenter will offer an interactive learning experience. The technology we have included in or application will provide anyone outside the primary classroom to participate in the workshop as if they were in the room. All participants will be able to see each other and converse in real time. This type of interaction will facilitate propinquity, which in turn will enhance learning, community development, peer supports and learning, along with synergies and collisions important to an entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Theory of Change (Why)
• If entrepreneurs have access to affordable, accessible, and time-wise resources on starting and growing a business, they will be more successful and less likely to fail.
• If INTONOVUS facilitates and curates inter-regional partnerships to create “live” remote social learning classes, entrepreneurs will have the resources to scale their businesses up.
• If we can create strong rural+urban linkages, then rural residents will have a better chance of receiving the same supports and resources afforded to urban entrepreneurs.
• If opportunities are well marketing and supported for Women, Disabled, Youth, and Rural people, they will register and attend sessions.
• If legislators and funders understand the scope of social enterprise in Alberta, then they will enact new policies that reflect the supports needed to grow businesses from small to medium.
If cost is a factor prohibiting you from attending sessions, we have a limited number of scholarships and bursaries available for those in financial need.
