Motivation: Learning through role models
The motivation to learn and actively change the world is particularly crucial for children and young people, as this motivation forms the basis for a lifelong educational journey and allows them to grow into responsible citizens. Children and young people are naturally curious and open-minded, and their early experiences shape their perspectives and behavior as adults. With our global platform ReGen.rocks we provide the tools and knowledge to understand complex issues such as climate change, social justice and environmental sustainability in an accessible and engaging way. In doing so, we rely on role models.
"I try to be the person I needed when I was younger."
Michelle Obama
Acting through motivation
Inspiring role models on ReGen.rocks
Role models inspire and encourage action. ReGen.rocks gives them a stage. This gives young people the push they need to put their ideas into practice. In the Learn section, theoretical knowledge comes to life thanks to success stories from ReGens. These success stories provide concrete ideas and show that it can be done: It works! In the Connect area, young people can exchange ideas directly with their role models. In this way, knowledge is not only imparted, but through direct contact with doers it becomes motivation for their own actions. You see: If they can do it, so can we!
Named a "Millennium Dreamer" by UNESCO, crowned Miss Germany 2022 and now an ambassador for free sustainability education - Domitila's journey is an inspiration for millions.
Role models as a link between SDGs and IDSs
How do role models motivate young people to get involved in sustainability?
Role models play a central role in linking IDGs and SDGs. They show young people how inner competencies and skills can be applied in practice to achieve sustainable development goals. Through the stories and examples of people who use their inner strengths to tackle sustainability challenges, young people realize that they themselves are capable of making significant changes. Role models inspire and motivate them to develop their own skills and take action.
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Identification
Young people identify more easily with people who share similar interests or values. In this sense, role models motivate similar behavior.
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Orientation
Role models offer clear paths and strategies for personal and professional success. They give young people direction and help them to define and achieve their own goals.
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Inspiration
Role models show that change is possible and motivate people to imitate positive behavior.
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Credibility
Authentic role models make sustainable goals more tangible and realistic. This credibility increases the intrinsic motivation of young people.
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Empowerment
They strengthen self-confidence and the conviction that young people can also make a difference. The self-efficacy of the individual is an important factor when it comes to sustainable development.
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Information
Role models impart knowledge and explain the importance of sustainable action. In this way, interrelationships can be better understood and young people can be motivated to become active.
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Sense of community
Role models create a sense of belonging to a larger movement for positive change. Belonging to groups is particularly important for young people.
Types of role models
Motivation through personal and institutional role models
Personal role models:
approachable and inspiring
Personal role models are often people who are close to the young people or whose stories touch them. These can be local environmentalists, teachers, family members or activists such as Greta Thunberg. These role models show that even individuals can make a big difference and offer young people concrete instructions for action and motivation.
Institutional role models:
strong and collaborative
In addition to personal role models, larger institutions also play an important role as role models. Organizations such as the United Nations, Greenpeace or regional poverty reduction initiatives demonstrate how collective efforts and well-organized programs can achieve significant progress in sustainable development. These role models help young people understand that they are part of a larger network and that their contributions, no matter how small they may seem, are part of a global movement. This reveals opportunities for action and motivates them to take action.
Is your motivation on point?
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at ReGen.rocks
You too can help develop ReGen.rocks and take it to the next level by contributing your knowledge and skills. Feel free to send us a message with your ideas and thoughts, we are looking forward to your input!