CRP 384
Participatory Methods in Community Planning

Instructor: Patricia Wilson
Time and Place: W12-3, SUT 3.112

The approach to participatory methods used in this graduate seminar is that of whole systems design and problem solving. The student learns methods and skills for participatory planning, team-building, and group facilitation used in local development, especially by community-based organizations. Applications will be discussed primarily in the context of the United States. We may choose as a class to prepare some actual participatory events for an outside audience.

CONTENT

I. Participatory methods and the new professional protocol in local development planning
II. Learning group facilitation skills
III. History of the development of participatory methods
IV. Large group and small group approaches to participation
V. Collaborative learning: A systems approach
VI. Participatory methods from the World Bank
VII. The Open Space Technology Method
VIII. Theory to Action: Class or individual project

Course is particularly useful for students who will be working with community groups in the United States.

EVALUATION

Based on in-class participation (leading and participating in discussions and in-class exercises such as role playing) and group action project or independent research project on a particular case, organization or participatory method. 50% in-class work 50% independent or group project

YOU MAY REGISTER FOR THIS COURSE ON A PASS-FAIL BASIS (i.e. Credit/No-credit).