Foundations of Practice
Level OneLevel TwoLevel Three

Level 1 Training // Fall 2011

About this Training

This course makes use of the latest in distance learning technology. Each weekly class consists of a 90-minute presentation and discussion on fundamental community development topics. Supplemental resources will be located within the training archives.

Presentations will be delivered using both Adobe Connect, an interactive learning platform, and Moodle, a system that facilitates the development and delivery of online courses. The Moodle - Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment - site will host a threaded discussion that provides participants the opportunity to share experiences, get to know each other, ask the presenters additional questions, and engage in deeper conversation.

In order to maximize your learning experience, you should have access to a computer with an Internet connection (preferably a high-speed connection that does not rely on a wireless connection). All audio will be provided using a teleconference bridge so a headset is not necessary for particpation.

When your registration is processed, you will receive an e-mail with detailed instructions on how to access both the Adobe Connect classroom and the Moodle website.

If you are planning to take the class as part of a group, you can share a connection for the weekly presentations, but you will need a way to project your computer screen and speakers to enhance the sound.

If you have any questions about this course or would like to discuss connection options, contact a course facilitators below:

How to Sign Up

*** Registration for the Fall 2010 Session is now closed!

The cost is only $150 per person. If you are sharing a computer and phone line, the cost per additional person is $25. Each person must register.

Registrations cancelled prior to September 24, 2011 will be subject to a $35 cancellation fee. Registrations cancelled after September 27, 2011 are nonrefundable.

Sessions

Introduction to the Series and Basic Introduction to Community

October 7, 2011

Want to know more about the principles of doing good community development work? Here's the starting line. Covering the dynamics of community life, this introduction helps you discover some of the key characteristics of the community that can facilitate (or impede) the development of effective community-improvement programs.


Community Demographics

October 14, 2011

Doing quality community development work is pretty difficult if you lack a sound understanding of the current and emerging features of your community and its population. What are the population, economic, and social conditions and trends in your community? This session will provide you with valuable guidelines on ways to create useful data-based profiles of your community.


Community Economics

October 21, 2011

Money comes and goes, but knowing who's bringing it in, how it's being invested, and how it's leaving the community is important to supporting a vibrant economy. Learn about the many facets of a community's economic complexion in this session.


Community Power Structure

October 28, 2011

Knowing the visible and "behind the scenes" leaders in a community is crucial to any effort by a group to promote and advance key community development activities. Find out about the important layers of leadership in your community and the straightforward manner for identifying the various leadership roles that individuals play.


Community Situational Analysis

November 4, 2011

Every community has challenges that impede its ability to become stronger and more vibrant. But, taking the time to truly understand the mix of issues impacting the well-being of a community is crucial. Learn about a valuable process for engaging local people and groups in a systematic, step by step process for uncovering high priority issues and taking action on these concerns.


Basics of Asset Mapping

November 11, 2011

This session will introduce webinar participants to the asset-based community development (ABCD) approach and highlight the seven community capitals framework. The value of linking the asset-based community development process with the seven community capitals framework will be demonstrated.


Community Development Process

November 18, 2011

Several approaches can facilitate the ability of communities to get things done. Learn about some valuable tools and procedures – both past and present – that can offer a valuable roadmap on how to pursue good community development work.