The 4 big questions that we use to frame UVic’s Leading Edge are not unique to UVic—they are universal philosophical questions that promote self-discovery.
What is unique to UVic is the way we have interpreted these 4 big questions to create an innovative curricular program. When students participate in the Leading Edge, they reflect on their UVic experiences using a curricular lens that is inspired by these philosophical questions. Through this process, students develop a sense of purpose, and a plan forward, that draws on their hands-on academic and co-curricular experiences.
The ikigai connection
The 4 big questions are inspired by the Japanese concept of Ikigai, as outlined in Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life (Garcia and Miralles, 2016). Garcia and Miralles in turn drew inspiration from Marc Winn's What is your Ikigai (2014) blog post. Edutopia (2015) has also drawn inspiration from these 4 big questions. There are many interpretations, which all centre around finding one's purpose. The original source of the concept is unclear.
