Class Community Development and Social Intervention

Community Development and Social Intervention is an optional subject on the syllabus of the degree in Social Work. This course is part of an interdisciplinary context that covers fundamental theoretical and methodological concepts for analyzing and intervening in communities. The scope of this curricular unit includes the identification and diagnosis of community needs, the development of intervention strategies and the mobilization of resources for the actions implemented. The relevance of this course in the Social Work degree lies in its ability to provide students with the theoretical and practical tools essential for their future professional practice. By exploring the various facets of community development and social intervention, this curricular unit promotes the training of students to face the complex and multidimensional challenges that characterize the practice of Social Work.

Not applicable

1. Introduction to Community Social Work: key concepts and theoretical approaches 1.1. The concept and definitions of community 1.2. Theories of community 1.3. The meaning of community intervention 1.4. The history of community intervention 2. Social Work and Community Intervention: concepts and practices 2.1. Perspectives on social and community development 2.2. Community and Community Social Work 2.3. Intervention in communities: practices, principles and benefits of action 2.4. Territorial diagnosis 3. Community Participation and Empowerment 3.1. Community participation: process and stages 3.2. Network intervention and partnerships 3.3. Leadership strategies, training and local empowerment

The curricular unit will be conducted through theoretical classes and simulated practices, complemented by innovative methodologies such as case studies and simulations. Assessment will be divided between a mini-test (35%) to check theoretical mastery, and the development and presentation of a group community action (65%), allowing for the practical application of the concepts learned. These approaches aim to prepare students to intervene in real contexts, promoting active learning, leadership and team collaboration.

Amaro, R. (2023). Os Grupos Comunitários – Um novo modelo de intervenção para o desenvolvimento. In Casquilho-Martins, & J. Fialho (Org). Planeamento da Intervenção Social-Conceção, Ação e Avaliação (pp. 329-340). Edições Silabo. Hardcastle, D. (2011). Community Practice Theories and Skills for Social Workers. Oxford University Press. McArdle, K., Briggs, S., Forrester, K., & Garrett, E. (2024). Community Work Theory into Practice. Policy Press. Pradeep, M., & Sathyamurthi, K. (2017). The Community in Community Social Work. Journal Of Humanities And Social Science 22(9), 58-64. https://doi.org/110.9790/0837-2209015864 Reisch, M. (2008). Intervention with Communities. In K. Sowers & C. Dulmus (Org.). Social Work Practice.  John Wiley & Sons. Twelvetress, A., & Todd, R. (2024). Community Development, Social Action And Social Planning. A Practical Guide. Policy Press.