A SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PRACTICE MODEL FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This paper presents an operationalization of a social development practice model useful to community development. The model was initially developed in an attempt to rationalize practice with relationship to the value and policy writings in social development. It was anticipated that the model could be useful in planning, implementation and evaluation processes of community development practice. The model suggests the intensification of the processes of participation, empowerment, cooperation and institutionalization. It may extend the boundaries of community practice. A composite case study developed from an evaluative research project was used to provide material illustrative of the process usefulness of the model. The illustration demonstrated the model's usefulness as an evaluative device, while the presentation of the model focuses upon its utility as a community practice framework. It appears that the model could be useful in a variety of community projects.