Unit 1
The History and Conceptualization of Community Development

In Unit 1, we explore the historical evolution, conceptual framework, and origins of community development (CD) in Africa. Part 1 examines the initial implementation of development projects in Africa and elsewhere. The Unit readings trace the origins of the concept of CD to the former British African colonies: the concept of CD emerged from attempts of British colonial administrators to determine an effective strategy for African rural modernization.

Part 2 focuses on the conceptual framework of CD, outlining its major characteristics and assumptions as well as its basic principles, each of which guide CD research and practice. Part 2 also defines CD and examines its major concepts, leading to a discussion of empowerment, an important concept in CD process. Finally, Unit 1 addresses the foundations of CD, namely its ecological and social justice perspectives.

Objectives

After completing Unit 1 you should be able to

1. outline the historical origins of the concept of community development.
2. identify and explain the basic concepts used in the field of community development.
3. assess the effectiveness of the early implementation of community development in Africa.
4. describe four ways of viewing community development.
5. summarize various conceptualizations of community.
6. describe basic community development principles and assumptions.
7. identify and discuss the ecological principle that characterizes CD foundation.
8. outline and describe CD foundation based on social justice.