Summary
Problem: There is a gap in Human Rights and Social Justice Education where students are taught to memorize information rather than critically engage with it. Existing curricula do not encourage students to connect these issues to their own lives or explore their role in driving change. As a result, the benefits of this education—critical thinking, empathy, and activism—are not fully realized.
Solution: Developed Activisme, a digital learning platform that leverages video storytelling, gamification, and interactive content to engage students in social justice topics. The platform allows students to explore activist stories, participate in discussions, complete action-based assignments, and progress through levels of activism.
Impact: Initial testing showed strong engagement—98% of teachers gave a five-star rating, and 78% of students remained engaged through lesson completion. Further research is needed to assess long-term retention and classroom integration.
The Challenge
Despite growing interest among Generation Z and their educators, there is a significant gap in curriculum that allows students to critically reflect on and engage with Human Rights and Social Justice issues. While these topics may be included in traditional education, they are often presented in a rigid, test-driven format that prioritizes memorization over meaningful exploration. Students are rarely given opportunities to connect these issues to their personal lives or to consider their role in shaping social justice movements.
As a result, even when Human Rights and Social Justice Education is introduced in classrooms, its potential benefits—such as fostering critical thinking, empathy, and active civic engagement—are not fully realized.
Target Market
Our primary audience consists of educators who seek structured, engaging, and impactful Human Rights Education materials but lack a standardized curriculum. Our secondary audience is Generation Z students, a demographic known for their social consciousness and eagerness to drive change.
Research & Insights
Teachers of Gen-Z
The core audience for Activisme is teachers educating students aged 10-14. This age group, part of Generation Z, is highly engaged with social justice topics, technologically adept, and deeply aware of global diversity.
Gen-Z and Activism
Born between 1996 and the present, Generation Z is already actively participating in public discourse. This group is socially aware, values diversity, and is committed to issues such as climate change, racial justice, and economic inequality. Frequently referred to as “Gen-We,” this generation prioritizes collaboration, teamwork, and collective problem-solving.
Studies show that:
76% of Gen-Z are concerned about human impact on the planet.
60% want their future careers to contribute to making a difference.
Over 35% have taken action by donating, volunteering, or educating others on causes they care about.
These trends highlight the urgency for educational tools that equip young people with the knowledge and skills to take meaningful action.
Aligning Technology with Gen-Z’s Learning Preferences
Digital Engagement
Gen-Z is the first generation to grow up fully immersed in technology. They use multiple devices, primarily smartphones and tablets, and spend more time consuming digital content than watching traditional television. This shift in media consumption influences how they learn, with an increasing preference for interactive, digital-first experiences.
E-Learning as a Solution
Effective e-learning embraces “fluid” learning—an approach that fosters critical thinking and self-paced exploration rather than passive memorization. Research suggests that interactive, self-guided digital education can be more impactful than traditional classroom methods, particularly when paired with:
Personalized Learning Paths – Allowing students to choose how they engage with content.
Instant Feedback & Informal Assessment – Encouraging learning without the pressure of grades.
Collaborative Learning – Enabling discussions and interactions beyond the classroom.
Solution
Activisme: A Digital Learning Platform for Social Justice
Activisme is designed to harness Gen-Z’s digital habits and learning preferences to create a meaningful, engaging educational experience.
Key Features
Video-Based Learning – Short, interactive animated videos introduce students to inspiring young activists and their stories.
Social Media Integration – A shared space for students to upload and interact with peer-created content, fostering a sense of global community.
Gamification – Students advance through levels of activism, earning points, unlocking new stories, and progressing from “Activist” to “Global Activist.”
Interactive Content – Reflection questions, quizzes, and action-based assignments encourage critical thinking and personal engagement.
Flexible & Accessible Platform – A browser-based web app ensures accessibility across devices, including in regions with limited tech infrastructure.
Prototype & Testing
Using the Google HEART framework, we conducted usability testing within our target demographic. Initial findings showed high engagement, with:
99% of teachers giving a five-star rating.
78% of students actively engaged in lessons.
98% of students able to complete tasks with minimal frustration.
While initial testing confirmed strong engagement, further research is needed to assess long-term retention and classroom integration.
Future Development & Expansion
To maximize impact, we aim to:
Expand content – Develop additional activist stories and diversify topics.
Adapt for younger audiences – Create age-specific lesson plans and interactive materials.
Enhance accessibility – Introduce mobile apps and text-based learning for regions with limited internet access.
Partner with non-profits – Collaborate with organizations like the Irish Red Cross to integrate Activisme into youth programs.
Conclusion
By leveraging technology, storytelling, and interactive learning, Activisme empowers Generation Z to become informed, engaged, and active participants in the global social justice movement.
