Community Development: Theory, Models, Theology

College Wycliffe College
Instructor(s)
Course Code WYP1616HF
Semester First Semester
Section 0101
Online No
Credits One Credit
Location Toronto (St George Campus)
Description

This course provides an introduction and overview to the core issues, approaches and players for Christian practitioners of community development, within both Canadian and international settings. As an overview to the theory, models and theology of community development, this is the local counterpart to the international development focus of the current course WYP1615: "International Development: Global Issues, Power & Players." This course helps students build a platform for their engagement as lay and ordained community practitioners in local community settings. Worldviews, approaches and actors are explored across the community development spectrum, as are the patterns and lenses of local faith-based organizations. Theories and models are examined which assess and address the local nature and dynamics of poverty, participation, power and community ownership. The inter-relationships between vision, values and practice are explored, along with the roles of local government, business and civil society players in working with the marginalized and vulnerable. This course will especially engage: - the theory and theology of 'belonging' and 'place' - community development as a social, political, economic, ecological and spiritual process - historic and contemporary issues and debates within community development - Canadian vs. global South poverty, marginalization and development - models of participation and empowerment - civil society, the church and community development - appreciative inquiry and assets-based community development - community development that transforms: faith, spirituality and holistic approaches - a critical path for engaging community development - community mobilization and conscientization.

Schedule Thu
Start Time 14:00
End Time 17:00
Hours Per Week 3
Minimum Enrolment 5
Maximum Enrolment 20
Teaching Method
Lectures
Seminars
Means of Evaluation
Other
Previously Offered Winter 2019
Currently Offered Fall 2019