Authors: Palacio, Fernando, Sadehvandi, Nikan

In 2018 the universities in the University Social Responsibility Network (USRN) embarked on the ambitious project of creating a collaborative Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), aiming to raise awareness of the concept of University Social Responsibility (USR), boost the visibility of the achievements and social impacts of its members, and promote effective strategies for design and implementation of the universities’ civic engagements. Based on the Network Theory and organizational behavior analysis, the following pages depict the production process as a collaborative MOOC, how participation from USRN members was secured, and how each institution’s unique approach and share to the project was stitched together into a cohesive project. The paper describes the joint nature of the project, challenges faced, lessons learned, and tips for success in joint projects for MOOC creation as well as for USR policy making and implementation.

Editors: Shek, Daniel T.L., Hollister, Robert

This book provides a critical review of the theory and practice of University Social Responsibility. In addition to addressing the nature of and concepts surrounding University Social Responsibility, as well as its ties to areas such as service learning or engaged scholarship, the book also presents effective practices from around the world. Dedicated chapters demonstrate how University Social Responsibility can manifest itself in different types

(civic, moral, economic or global responsibility), levels (local, national, regional or international), and formats (partnership, venture or joint project), depending on local contexts and needs. The book also focuses on three areas of work – educating students to take on social responsibility, broadening access to education, and applying knowledge to societal problems – to highlight the potential and viable ways University Social Responsibility can be employed to promote quality of life in society. Offering a unique resource, it is intended to stimulate thinking and expand the repertoire of all educators, administrators, and organizations who wish to incorporate societal needs into their core mission and promote quality of life in different communities around the world.