Potential solutions
Description:
The drafting of this document was a continuation of the needs analysis, aimed at proposing concrete solutions adapted to the challenges identified. This process, though stimulating, presented some notable constraints in terms of layout, choice of ideas and compliance with academic criteria.
Layout constraints
Particular attention was paid to the visual presentation of the document, with the aim of meeting the visual quality criteria of the vignettes while making the content clear and accessible. The use of a structured format with meaningful headings, concise paragraphs and graphic elements required harmonization of styles and meticulous editing. Challenges included space management to avoid visual overload while ensuring completeness of information. Each solution had to be presented in a balanced way to maintain consistency in the final rendering. To this we added the additional challenge of aligning our document with Cégep Limoilou's new identity.
Tough choices between different ideas
The group often had to arbitrate between several innovative ideas, with each member bringing a unique perspective. For example, when developing solutions such as the “GenAI Knowledge Forum” or the “Serious Game: AI Literacy”, the debate focused on technical feasibility and educational scope. The choice was made in favor of proposals that not only met the needs identified, but also demonstrated clear links and interrelationships between them, such as the complementary nature of continuing education and the creation of a mentoring network.
Compliance with criteria
Each solution was designed in compliance with the specific criteria provided:
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Relevance and creativity
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Comprehensive information
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Links between solutions
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Visual quality
Take aways
The development of the Potential Solutions project for Cégep Limoilou enabled the team to develop essential insights and lessons, while acquiring academic skills that are transferable to the professional world. By adopting an entrepreneurial approach, the team was able to identify opportunities for innovation and growth aligned with the Cégep's brand image. Rather than seeing constraints as obstacles, they were seen as levers for devising innovative solutions that reinforce the educational mission and institutional values of the establishment.
One of the major lessons learned was to see every need as an opportunity to innovate. For example, the challenge of limited support for the integration of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) led to proposals such as “AI Assistance”, a targeted and practical help line. This solution not only addresses an immediate problem, it also paves the way for future opportunities, such as the creation of an GenAI center of expertise for educational institutions.
Our entrepreneurial approach has also guided the choice of solutions that promote a multiplier effect, where each intervention is aligned with an overall improvement strategy. For example, the link between “AI 101” training and the creation of a network of mentors in GenAI illustrates how one solution can be amplified by another. So we merged them. By creating a continuous learning community, these initiatives not only improve pedagogical practices, they also stimulate teacher engagement, fostering wider adoption of GenAI.
Finally, the team has learned to value creativity as a driver of innovation. Ideas such as a serious game for students or a collaborative forum for teachers show how innovation can transform a complex field into an accessible and engaging experience. By adopting a growth mindset, the team has demonstrated that even rigorous constraints can be reimagined as strategic opportunities. This entrepreneurial approach provides a solid foundation for future educational initiatives.