"This chapter describes and analyzes an alternative communication and social change praxis called the Positive Deviance (PD) approach. Anchored in the traditions of wisdom, PD is based on identifying, amplifying and assessing problem-solving endogenous wisdom that is hidden and elusive, context-cent
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ered and sustainable and grounded in ethical, non-hierarchical actions. In this chapter, the key tenets and principles of the PD approach are detailed, demonstrating how communication and social change practitioners can use PD’s step-by-step method to identify and amplify problem-solving wisdom. Three applications of the PD approach are investigated: (a) combating malnutrition in Vietnam, (b) reducing school dropouts in Argentina and (c) decreasing neo-natal and maternal mortality in Pakistan. The conclusion reached is that PD is an inside out and upside down approach to communication and social change that values ordinary, uncommon and actionable wisdom that could make an extraordinary difference." (Abstract)
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"This incisive Handbook critically examines the role and place of media and communication in development and social change, reflecting a vision for change anchored in values of social justice. Outlining the genealogy and history of the field, it then investigates the possible new directions and obje
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ctives in the area. Key conclusions include an enhanced role for development communication in participatory development, active agency of stakeholders of development programs, and the operationalization of social justice in development." (Publisher description)
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