Community Development in Action
| Course Code | CDEV-312 |
|---|---|
| Lecture hours per week | 3 |
| Lab hours per week | |
| Course Availability | Open |
| Description | This course will focus predominantly on the process of “doing” community development through the examination of various community development process models and approaches, project management strategies, practice principles, partnership building and public participation frameworks. The strength-based underpinnings of CD work will be examined in depth, along with the related concepts of self –determination, cultural competence and cultural proficiency. The act of researching and entering the community, setting goals and assessing both community needs and assets will highlight the essential process of change that is central to CD work. The course will explore strategic planning for CD action in both the private and public sector including developing a community vision, mission statement and terms of reference for community action. An examination of contemporary trends, issues and debates associated with CD practice will be included. Exploring community action plan creation strategies will help students understand the process of how to assess, plan, implement, monitor, evaluate and revise community programs. The politics inherent in the process of implementing and evaluating CD interventions will be discussed with an emphasis on both the challenges and possible solutions to these challenges. Learning how to mobilize groups into action and converting work plans into visible projects will be a central focus of the course. Advocacy, as a crucial part of community work will be examined along with the goals, tactics and several ingredients necessary for successful advocacy initiatives in the community. In addition, the course will explore the process of community capacity building, change management, and the impact of politics in building community networks and promoting community action. Course Learning Outcomes
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