Working Outside the Box: Advertising Campaigns, Downtown Revitalization, and Community Engagement

Abstract

This descriptive analysis of an Advertising Campaigns course demonstrates how measured risk-taking can help establish a “virtuous cycle of improvement” between universities and communities.  Student engagement in downtown revitalization efforts was supported by a flexible syllabus, strategic classroom management, and strong partnerships. The essay emphasizes the process of making curricular decisions that align with instructors’ experience, talent, and goals.  When teaching outside of the box instructors should choose models that complement their own expertise and talents.