Poverty, Development & Transformation I: Introduction to Global & Local Issues, Power & Players

This course is Part I of an introduction and overview to the issues and practices of community development, as practised locally and internationally. It contributes to students' understanding of the field's global dimensions, as well as the knowledge, attitudes and skills required for effective local engagement. Worldviews, approaches and actors are explored, as are the patterns and lenses of several Christian perspectives. Understanding is built around the nature and dynamics of poverty and power, and their relationships to the spectrum of community development approaches and practices, along with the roles of international agencies, governments, NGOs, churches and other players in working with the marginalized and vulnerable. Evaluation includes papers, reflection, research, participation and term project. Tutorial from 9:30 - 11:30 am on alternative Fridays.