This unit (ASA5023) of study critiques key developments and debates about civil society and democracy, its history and evolving roles and functions in international community development. Students examine civil society's relationships with other actors, including other civil society organisations (CSOs), governments, international institutions and the private sector. Students critically assess the relationships between civil society in developed and developing countries, including in relation to supporting capacity building of First Nations to claim rights, hold governments and authorities to account, connect communities and representatives, and plan and implement community development initiatives. Students interrogate the concept of capacity development and its relationship to processes of self-determination, democratisation and state development and consider the appropriateness and sustainability of capacity development strategies. Case studies are used to provide real world illustrations of key issues and tensions.
Unit details
Location:
Study level:
Postgraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
ASA5023
Prerequisites
Successful completion of 2 units of the course.
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Learning Outcomes
| 1. | Critically examine key development and civil society theories in terms contributing to a more resilient community, and a more equitable and sustainable world; | ||
| 2. | Conceptually map the links between public policies, government and civil society organisations in building capacity; | ||
| 3. | Debate the competing conceptions of civil society and deconstruct its roles and functions in international community development; and | ||
| 4. | Theorise and transform thinking about key concepts, issues and debates in relation to capacity building in international community development contexts. |
Assessment
| Assessment type | Description | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Journal | Blog posts responding to first 3 sessions. | 20% |
| Review | Digital media product reviewing an event, campaign or field activity accompanied by an explanatory note. | 40% |
| Project | An evidence and case-based opinion piece critically exploring civil society and democracy. | 40% |
Where to next?
As part of a course
This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.
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