What Is World Problem Solvers Agency?

World Problem Solvers Agency (WPSA) is an online multimedia studio “staffed” by students who create, vet and share 30- to 60-second PSAs (public service announcements) designed to bring attention to the world¹s problems – from their neighborhood to the globe. And in doing so, TOGETHER we can help accelerate transformational change in the world.

Inspired by FDR’s WPA (Works Progress Administration), which called upon out-of-work citizens to employ their talents, strength and energy to move America forward, WPSA calls upon young people to raise awareness about the “big issues” facing our communities.

In WPSA kids share ideas, improve the research and creation process, and review one another’s PSAs. Kids use a proven framework for selecting topics, doing research, analyzing their research results, and creating and sharing media.

By handing the “keys” to the media development lab to kids, WPSA provides a context for kids to hone 21st Century Skills while making a positive difference. As the community evolves, winners of the WPSA Annual Media Awards will advance within the Community of Practice to become teaching staff volunteers/peer mentors.

What Is WPSA’s Significance?
WPSA lures kids away from passive media consumption—and entices them to create their OWN media by getting engaged in a powerful learning community.

WPSA provides personally meaningful ways for students to learn and use 21st Century Skills. WPSA provides a rich and ever-growing context in which to gain and share knowledge while engaging students in authentic assessment: each participant’s accomplishments will be self-evaluated and reviewed by peers and educators.

WPSA will also nurture active, informed citizens who participate in the civic process through which they can improve the world. We believe that the most significant potential of participatory learning is to empower people to use their shared understanding and their sense of community to make a positive difference.