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Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies

Change Making

What is Change Making, and what do we do?

Change Making is a new inter- and transdisciplinary learning concept where students work together with societal partners on transition challenges to design and implement interventions. Students will make sense of complexity while taking steps toward change. Not only in theory, but with action.
What is Change Making?

Our mission

We want to empower a new generation of change makers (students, professionals and educators) to explore, question, and shape transitions that contribute to a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world. Change Making has two central aims 1) supporting personal growth through inner development and 2) contributing to societal transitions through real-world collaboration. 

Our methods

The Transition Cycle, created by Luca Bertolini. is the leading method for this course. The Transition Cycle is a structured yet iterative method that guides participants through processes of envisioning, analyzing, experimenting, and reflecting on systemic change. It unfolds in four phases (Imagine, Connect, Act, and Assess) each defined by a generative question. These phases are not linear checkpoints, but rather interdependent steps that invite ongoing iteration and learning.  

Key themes

Sustainable Prosperity

This topic focuses on sustainable, climate-proof progress through a reduction in ecological footprint, behavioural change and innovations in materials and resources.

Responsible Digital Transformations

Digital technologies have unlocked endless new possibilities, but they also have severe social consequences. Responsible Digital Transformations focuses on the ethical, legal and societal aspects of digital algorithms, systems, and platforms.

Fair and Resilient Societies

‘Fair and Resilient Societies’ is the interdisciplinary, UvA-wide theme for research and teaching aimed at promoting a just, stable and resilient society that ensures the well-being of its citizens.

Healthy Future

The theme 'healthy future' involves mental and physical health in relation to cultural factors, behaviour, participation in society and the realisation of equal opportunities.