Radford University's 2023 Fall Wicked Festival: Tackling Wicked Problems Across Disciplines

 

Radford University's 2023 Fall Wicked Festival: Tackling Wicked Problems Across Disciplines 

By: Juliana Hill 

  

Introduction: 

In the heart of Radford University's campus, the Davis College of Business and Economics building, Kyle Hall, recently played host to a revolutionary event - the 2023 Fall Wicked Festival. This extraordinary gathering brought together over 500 presenters, spanning three floors, and included students from various majors, classes, and citizen leaders. The festival provided a unique platform for attendees to address and discuss "wicked problems" they had identified in society, showcasing the diversity and depth of the university's intellectual community. 

  

What Are Wicked Problems? 

Before diving into the festival highlights, it's crucial to understand the concept of a "wicked problem." Coined by planning theorists Horst Rittel and Melvin Webber in the 1970s, wicked problems are complex, multifaceted issues that resist straightforward solutions. They often involve numerous stakeholders, interconnected challenges, and social, cultural, and political dimensions. The 2023 Fall Wicked Festival served as an arena for participants to confront these intricate problems head-on. 

  

Diverse Perspectives on Wicked Problems: 

One of the festival's highlights was the variety of wicked problems presented by student teams. For instance, a team explored the pervasive issue of sexism within the military. They delved into the ways in which military culture can contribute to sexist environments, hindering accountability and perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Another team passionately advocated for accessible contraception to address global overpopulation, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to ensure a sustainable future. 

  

Another thought-provoking presentation focused on bridging the gap between healthcare and technology. This team discussed the challenges of integrating rapidly evolving technology into healthcare systems, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation to enhance patient care and outcomes. These presentations showcased the depth of critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration among Radford University students. 

  

Acknowledgments: 

The success of the 2023 Fall Wicked Festival wouldn't have been possible without the dedication and support of various entities. The Radford Wicked Society played a pivotal role in organizing and coordinating the event, fostering an environment that encouraged open dialogue and innovative thinking. The College of Humanities and Behavioral Studies, the Davis College of Business and Economics, and Citizen Leader also contributed significantly to the festival's success, highlighting the university's commitment to fostering a holistic and collaborative learning experience. 

  

Special appreciation is extended to the faculty and students whose dedication and passion brought these discussions to life. Their commitment to addressing wicked problems head-on is a testament to Radford University's vibrant intellectual community and its commitment to nurturing thoughtful leaders. 

  

Conclusion: 

The 2023 Fall Wicked Festival at Radford University was a celebration of intellectual curiosity, innovation, and collaboration. By addressing wicked problems from diverse perspectives, students demonstrated their commitment to creating positive change in the world. As we reflect on the success of this event, we look forward to future iterations of the Wicked Festival, where the Radford community can continue to explore and confront the complex challenges facing our society.