This module incorporates a number of inter-related learning strategies. The main focus of learning will be on self instruction, within a tightly structured framework and relying largely (but not exclusively) on materials supplied. Week by week you will work through self-instructional course material (delivered via Blackboard), which provides the framework and focus for reading key texts and papers and undertaking the specific tasks set. This work will be undertaken on an individual basis, but at various points you will be expected to interact and share material with other students in your learning group and your tutor. (24 hours) The Blackboard sessions will be used for the consideration of core issues and themes relating to the theory, politics and policies of contemporary community empowerment. The independent study will require reading around selected topics, the development of individual responses to the reading and the preparation for the assessments. The module will run over 16 weeks including 4 weeks to complete assessments.

Course textbooks to be supplied by the university.
Computer and internet for access to Blackboard and relevant websites.
Library, where you will find relevant electronic textbooks, electronic journals, and audio-visual materials.
The Blackboard virtual learning environment; details will be supplied in the module handbook.

Craig Gary, Popple Keith & Shaw Mae (2008): Community Development in Theory and Practice: An International Reader. Nottingham: Spokesman.
Craig Gary, Mayo Marjorie, Popple Keith & Shaw Mae (2011): The Community Development Reader: History, Themes and Issues. Bristol: Policy Press.
Johnson Butterfield Alice K. & Korazim-K'rösy Yossi (2007): Interdisciplinary Community Development: International Perspectives. Haworth Press.
Shuman Michael (1994): Towards a Global Village: International Community Development Initiatives. Pluto Press.
Westoby Peter & Dowling Gerard (2013): Theory and Practice of Dialogical Community Development: International Perspectives. London: Routledge.

You are required to participate in and contribute substantially to at least 5 weeks of the weekly discussions, in addition to the week in which you present your virtual seminar (equivalent 1000 words) [10%: Learning Outcomes 1-6]

The virtual seminar presentation (1000 words) will require you to focus precisely and concisely on a narrow topic, analyse it and communicate your conclusions to the group [20%: Learning Outcomes 3, 4 & 6]

A portfolio (2000 words) [30%: Learning Outcomes 1, 2 & 6]

An essay (3000 words) [40%: Learning Outcomes 1-6]


A pass (50-59%) is awarded only when all of the assessment is complete and the work meets the learning objectives of the module.
A merit (60-69%) is awarded for an exemplary performance in meeting the learning objectives of the module.
A distinction (70% +) will be awarded for excellence in meeting the learning objectives of the module.

The module will investigate a number of aspects of contemporary concern with community empowerment in a global context, including:
Critical analysis of the concept of community and benefits of working with communities
Theories of community engagement: Gramsci, Alinsky, Freire, Fanon
Drivers for community engagement: national governments and international bodies
Drivers for community engagement: NGOs, civil society, social movements
Tools and techniques for undertaking community engagement
Social media and community engagement
Barriers to engagement: gender, ethnicity, class, human rights, urban-rural