Economist Stefano Zamagni uses a very efficient metaphor to explain the innovative potential of the third sector. He compares the work of these organisations to the activity of beavers who “construct niches” and give life to new ecosystems. Beavers are social animals that live in communities and build their dams to modify the surrounding habitat, creating conditions that allow other species to thrive. For example, when we develop new Phyrtual Innovation Gyms in the suburbs of Italian cities, one of the actions of Project OpenSpace, we are doing something similar to the beaver: creating new inclusive ecosystems. And by so doing, we develop generative capacity for the entire surrounding environment.
So, how does one build a dam? Who is the beaver?
In her post, Fiammetta Castagnini [@Fiammetta_FMD] helps us to understand a new dimension of the educator’s job as a silent and enthusiastic “builder of dams.” At times, just like beavers, educators feel clumsy and awkward and have a hard time dragging the necessary materials. However, once their project starts taking shape, they begin to move with ease and create new spaces. Try reading her story, written in a sleepless night, keeping in mind the metaphor of the beaver …
Educators as Beavers to Build Dams in the Suburbs
by Fiammetta Castagnini
Blog Percorsi con i bambini | OpenSpace
OpenSpace – Spaces for Active Participation of the Educational Community, selected Con i Bambini as part of the Fund to contrast the educational poverty of minors is a four-year project that aims to make communities more inclusive and responsible, promoting the educational and cultural growth and the empowerment of pre-adolescents and adolescents. The project is being held in suburban areas of Bari, Milan, Palermo and Reggio Calabria.
