Community and Economic Development: Theory and Practice

Catalog description

Understanding theories, concepts, and frameworks of community and economic development and community decision-making models in application to community development practice and issues. CEDEV 500 Principles of Community and Economic Development and Leadership (3) What factors affect the quality of life of American communities? How can citizens and leaders affect change in their community? This course provides an overview of principles of community and economic development and an introduction to approaches to organizing, planning and managing change in communities. Students gain an understanding of principles and strategies of community and economic development in relation to general systems theory, community decision making, and leadership strategies in group and community settings.Students who complete the course should be able to discuss theories and models of development, to apply general systems theory to development issues, and to understand approaches and techniques for community leadership. They will gain an appreciation of conflict and consensus approaches to decision making and change, and understand action strategies for community development and change.This is a required introductory course for all incoming students in the new Community and Economic Development graduate program. The course will also be of interest to graduate students in other programs who have an interest in community and economic development.