Online Class: Community Development 101

This course guides individuals on how to contribute to societal betterment by delving into community development's evolution and strategies. It empowers learners to engage actively in reshaping communities, armed with the necessary insights and tools for enduring impact.

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$120.00 (with CEU Certificate)
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  • 15
    Lessons
  • 17
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 51
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 8
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.8
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Unleashing Potential: The Power of Community Development

At the heart of human endeavor lies an innate yearning—a quest for enhancement, growth, and a brighter future. Each individual carries within them a vision—a dream of a better self, a harmonious society, and flourishing surroundings. Yet, while this drive propels many forward, a haze of uncertainties, challenges, and complexities often obstructs the path. Amidst these challenges, the question looms: how do we truly usher in positive transformation, not just for ourselves but for the larger community we're an integral part of?

Enter the realm of Community Development—a beacon of hope that has illuminated paths for countless communities across the globe. Historically, it has been a potent tool in combating societal disparities, predominantly poverty. Community development isn't just a methodology; it's a movement. A movement rooted in collaboration, where every voice matters, and collective action is harnessed to tackle deep-seated challenges. From urban skyscrapers to tranquil rural landscapes, this process has showcased its adaptability, relevance, and impact.

Our meticulously crafted course serves as a gateway to the profound world of community development. Embark on a transformative journey as you explore:

  • Chronicles of Change: Dive deep into the rich tapestry of community development, understanding its origins, evolution, and the vistas of its promising future.
  • Blueprints of Betterment: Decode the multifaceted strategies that have reshaped communities, unveiling the myriad avenues of application.
  • Pillars of Progress: Understand the critical factors that influence this development process, ensuring its success and sustainability.

The promise of a brighter tomorrow is not just a distant dream—it's a tangible reality, waiting to be shaped by you. Our course equips you with the insights, tools, and perspectives to be a catalyst in this transformative journey. Each module is not just a lesson but an invitation—to envision, engage, and elevate.

Today, you stand on the brink of an empowering expedition. One that not only redefines communities but also reimagines destinies. So, take that decisive leap. Enroll, enlighten, and empower not just yourself, but an entire community. Together, let's sculpt a legacy of lasting change.

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.6 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(1,032 votes)

Lesson 1. Community Growth: The Pathway to Sustainable Success

Community development isn't overnight town sprouting but a patient cultivation of social and economic progress through community and government collaboration. Emphasizing quality of life, unity, communication, and sustainability, it brings domestic and international value through educational and economic opportunities. Additional lesson topics: Introduction to Community Development: Theory, Practice, and Service-Learning; Planning and Community Development: A Guide for the 21st Century 51 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: What is your goal for taking this course?
  • Assessment: Quiz 1

Lesson 2. The Role of Education and Policy in Shaping U.S. Communities

The historical progression of community development in America illustrates a shift from fundamental survival needs to a structured process involving various influences over time. This lesson examines these changes, focusing on how cultural and political developments have shaped community actions from colonial times to now. Additional lesson topics: Community Development Story; Community Development in America: A Brief History pdf 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 2

Lesson 3. Unveiling the Foundations of Empowered Communities

Character and appearance form the identity of a community, influencing its reputation and attraction to resources or new businesses. These visible traits help set the tone and public perception, impacting how residents interact with their surroundings. Additional lesson topics: Empowering Lives through Community Development 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 3

Lesson 4. CBOs Uncovered: Enhancing Community Development

CBOs, while similar to non-profits in their tax-exempt status and community-benefiting designs, remain highly localized, potentially collaborating with neighboring CBOs to address larger, common issues. Despite financial and volunteer challenges, they offer direct local impact and organizational continuity beyond their founders, underpinning their essential role in community development. Additional lesson topics: CBO Organizations; Organization Types and Subtypes 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 4

Lesson 5. The Transformative Power of Community Development: Enhancing Lives for All

Community development aims to enrich the lives of community members, providing both large-scale enhancements and gradual improvements tailored to unique local needs. By addressing issues like health, economy, and safety, communities foster a stronger sense of ownership and leadership while reducing stress and improving well-being. Additional lesson topics: Transformative Community Planning: Empowerment Through Community Development; Sound Community Planning Process Based on Six Steps 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 5

Lesson 6. Harnessing Community Development for Change: Steps and Considerations

Implementing change in communities relies on a meticulous process of setting achievable goals, assessing options, and crafting a written action plan. The process remains dynamic and cyclic, allowing for adjustments as new issues and opportunities arise over time. Additional lesson topics: Session Several Community Development Process 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 6

Lesson 7. Understanding Human, Social, Environmental, and Resource Factors

In community development, the interplay of human factors, social dynamics, environmental conditions, and resource availability critically influences outcomes. Effective leadership and robust community interest can drive progress, but overcoming social prejudices and resource limitations remains essential. 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 7

Lesson 8. Crime's Impact on Community Growth

To combat crime, communities can implement strategies like neighborhood watch programs, environmental improvements, and robust law enforcement practices. These measures, part of the community development process, enhance safety, improve public trust, and contribute to sustainable community growth. Additional lesson topics: The Role of Government: Promoting Development or Getting Out of the Way 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 8

Lesson 9. Government's Role in Shaping Communities

Each community must weigh the pros and cons of government involvement, balancing access to resources and potential bureaucratic hurdles. While government can offer funding and experience, issues of control and political agendas can deter communities from embracing such partnerships. Additional lesson topics: HUD.GOV; The Importance of Public Administration in Community Development Scholarship and Practice 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 9

Lesson 10. Community Development Approaches: Tried, True, and Innovative

Social capital represents the strength of communal bonds, which may be under debate regarding its relevance but remains crucial for problem-solving within community contexts. Analyzing these bonds can guide improvements and predict potential challenges within a community's social structure. Additional lesson topics: Community Development Evaluation Research; Resources of Community Development; Community Development Approaches 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 10

Lesson 11. Navigating the Challenges: Disasters and Community Development

Disasters, whether natural, biological, or man-made, highlight vulnerabilities, often propelling communities to address underlying issues through development planning. By leveraging local assets and external support, communities can effectively restore and enhance their resilience post-crisis. Additional lesson topics: Why Community Engagement Matters; Community Development after Disaster Strikes; How to step up in the face of disaster 45 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 11

Lesson 12. Engage and Thrive: Building Stronger Communities Together

Improving engagement involves strategic empowerment, addressing obstacles, and fostering creativity in community development initiatives. This lesson emphasizes tailoring approaches to community interests and leveraging resources like technology to enhance engagement outcomes. Additional lesson topics: What is community engagement, exactly?; Types of community engagement 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 12

Lesson 13. Why Sustainability Matters in Community Growth

Communities should assess available resources, financial responsibilities, and growth opportunities before implementing sustainability practices. Understanding these factors ensures a smooth transition without jeopardizing economic stability or community participation. Additional lesson topics: What is Sustainable Community Development?; American Public Garden Association: Sustainable Community Development; Sustainable community development in the digital age: 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 13 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 13

Lesson 14. Understanding Community Development Corporations: A Comprehensive Guide

Community Development Corporations (CDCs) are influential non-profit entities that emerged as a by-product of the Civil Rights movement, primarily focusing on assisting communities in improvement efforts through a broader range of services compared to community-based organizations (CBOs). Though their numbers have dwindled since the estimated 4,600 in 2006, the demand for their diverse, demographically targeted services remains high due to prolonged economic struggles. Additional lesson topics: Community Development Corporations CDCs ; Why Start a Community Development Corporation 45 Total Points
  • Lesson 14 Video
  • Assessment: Quiz 14

Lesson 15. Envisioning Tomorrow's Community Development

Technology revolutionizes community development, offering tools for data analysis and prediction, while ever-evolving policies affect the framework of community actions. Cultural shifts redefine what communities value, impacting development priorities and methods. 395 Total Points
  • Lesson 15 Video
  • Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Course Comments; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Assessment: Quiz 15
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
1086
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Describe what community development is and why it's important.
  • Describe america's history of community development.
  • Define the key principles of community development.
  • Describe the role of community-based organizations.
  • Determine the community development process.
  • Summarize the strategic factors of community development.
  • Describe the government role and community development.
  • Describe engagement and community development.
  • Summarize sustainability and community development.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Community Development 101
Course Number: 9770498
Lessons Rating: 4.6 / 5 Stars (1,032 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is fully available online in all 50 states, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. It’s also offered in major English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Ireland.
Last Updated: April 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.8 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "This course is very helpful to me. By living in my community over the past seven years, I think it is incredibly important to have an understanding of what community development entails and what can be done to ensure its success. Having completed this course, it gives me better understanding of the more complex aspects, the value and how to involve myself in my community development process and how to use community development as a means of general improvement for the benefit of all in the community I live." -- Waisea T.
  • "The course was great, thank you." -- Ronald B.

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