Community Engagement

Mobilizing communities for change

Transform your community engagement strategies through in-depth training and actionable insights

This course is for public sector professionals working in the field of community engagement, and draws upon the pedagogy and philosophy of Paulo Freire to inform its approach. It explores topics such as participatory practice, asset based community development (ABCD) and appreciative inquiry. It also gives insights into community-based research, including tools for analysis, and looks at the co-creation of knowledge for those working with marginalized communities.
The training begins with a focus on participatory action research, guiding participants through thematic investigation and asset mapping. This foundational work enables a deeper understanding of the communities they serve, developing trust and collaboration. Participants will move beyond surface-level understanding to problematise and analyze community knowledge.

The programme goes on to explore future possibilities, with participants learning to translate their analysis into actionable community goals. This stage emphasizes collective vision-building and strategic planning, helping professionals set realistic, long-term objectives with their communities. Finally, the process focuses on putting theory into practice. Participants will compare various community engagement models, such as ABCD, appreciative inquiry, and participatory action research, while also developing creative methods for participation and empowerment. Barriers to change will be identified, and practical methods for evaluation and reflection will be introduced. The programme encourages an ongoing process of action-reflection-action, enabling participants to refine and enhance their community engagement practices. By the end of the programme, participants will have a solid foundation in participatory methods, critical analysis, and the skills needed to drive meaningful change within their communities.

What you learn

  • Interactive training in community research and participatory action research methods
  • Techniques for engaging with diverse and marginalized groups
  • Asset mapping tools, including inventories, surveys, and community events
  • Interactive training in community research and participatory action research methods
  • In-depth analysis of community issues using codification and decodification
  • Strategies for moving from problem analysis to collective goal setting
  • Guidance on creating community vision statements and defining long-term goals
  • Exploration of Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) and appreciative inquiry models
  • Identification of barriers to change and methods for overcoming them
  • Continuous action-reflection-action processes for enhancing practice

Organizations

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Individuals

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  Course Delivery
This participatory workshop programme available in the following delivery formats:
  • Virtual delivery
  • In person delivery
  • Hybrid delivery
  Duration
This is typically delivered over four one-day sessions as in-house training. Longer or bespoke programmes can be arranged.
  Course Certificate
Participants will receive a certificate upon completion of the course.
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