CMT1000EN - Intro to Community Development

Course description

This course introduces students to the theory and practice of Christian community development. Students will be able to identify the difference between relief, betterment, development, and systemic change and be introduced to key tools and practices for healthy, sustainable community development. This course focuses on the power of listening and working with community.

How this course benefits students

Anyone serving in a church or community-based NPO impacts his or her community. Students will learn how to define and participate in the community development process. They will begin to understand the nature of associations and institutions and difference and between relief, betterment, development and systemic change and how they impact community development.

Why this course is important

Students will: 1) Understand the Biblical foundations for community development; 2) Identify type of ministry In vs. To/For vs. With; 3) Discover tools for community development, 4) Understand Asset Based Community Development; 5) Develop basic concepts of Relief – Betterment – Development/Empowerment – Systemic Change; 6) Begin identifying some of the practical implications for our ministries when we work towards healthy communities and systems.

Credit hours
3 hours
Subject area
Community Transformation
Educational level
Associate
Learning type
Instructional
Prerequisites
None
Upcoming terms
Pending
* Schedule subject to change. Please contact the Registrar's office with schedule questions.

How this course relates to missional core values

Biblically based

This course will be based on a biblical worldview. We will specifically focus on Isaiah.

Missionally driven

The practice and philosophy of community development understands that God is already at work in our communities and provided resources necessary to bring about Kingdom. Community development recognizes that every individual and community has assets to offer and has value.

Contextually informed

Every community is different. A foundation principle of community development is the importance of knowing the community you are in and responding accordingly.

Interculturally focused

This course celebrates cultural diversity and recognizes the gift this is to the Kingdom of God.

Practically minded

This course will give students the practical tools and insights that they need to serve with their community.

Experientially transformed

This course is highly experiential and applicable to daily life. Students will be expected to practice what they are learning in their home communities.