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Barry Checkoway
The course examines specific strategies for community organizing for social justice in a diverse, democratic society.
Read more
The course examines specific strategies for community organizing for social justice in a diverse, democratic society.
Read more
The course examines specific strategies for community organizing for social justice in a diverse, democratic society.
It examines core concepts of social justice and practical steps for bringing people together to set goals and priorities, assess community assets and needs, develop action plans, and build support for implementation. It includes information on how to form core groups, build organizational capacity, and formulate strategy for reaching out to constituents and allies.
Because each person learns in a different way, the course features a variety of learning activities, information on successful programs, individual instructions, and small group exercises, as well as hands-on materials for problem solving and program planning. You can use these activities with individuals, with a small group of people, or with several groups in a community campaign.
The course draws upon work with people who are striving for community change in metropolitan Detroit, an area which is becoming both more segregated and more diverse. But it is designed for people who want to create change in communities, everywhere.
If you were to take the course with ideas in mind, and conclude with plans in hand, then our purpose will be served.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/onobgz/community
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Community Organizing for Social Justice
In this module, students will be introduced to the core concepts of the course, as well as hear from organizers around the country. Students will learn common language in the field of social justice and community organizing that will allow them to navigate the course.
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to Community Organizing for Social Justice
In this module, students will be introduced to the core concepts of the course, as well as hear from organizers around the country. Students will learn common language in the field of social justice and community organizing that will allow them to navigate the course.
Read more
Strengthening Diversity
In this module, students will dig into heavy topics of stereotypes, discrimination, and social identity. Students will be prompted to explore their own identities and reflect on how they see stereotypes and discrimination in their community.
Intergroup Dialogue
In this module, students will learn about communication styles, as well as gain skills on how to navigate difficult conversations.
Organizing & Planning for Community Change
In this module, students will learn 7 steps to creating change. They will be taken through each step, starting with people and ending with participatory evaluation, and they will be encouraged to create their own action plan along the way. Students will gain tools for creating change within their own community or school, as well as hear the stories and experiences from those who have executed community action projects before.
Strategy
In this module, students will learn crucial steps to using strategy as they work to create change. They will learn about some of the most important factors of strategy, such as targets and allies, and instructed to think about how their projects and their strategy go hand in hand. Students will gain tools for implementing strategy, as well as adapting it to their own community and project.
What Matters Most?
In this module, students will reflect on some of the main concepts of the course, such as social justice, community, organizing, planning, strategy, and believing in change. Students will be encouraged to think about which lessons mean the most to them.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Explores concepts and strategies in community organizing for social justice in a diverse, democratic society
Examines core concepts and practical steps for bringing people together and setting goals for community change
Provides resources on successful programs, individual instructions, and exercises for hands-on learning
Emphasizes the importance of diversity and understanding stereotypes, discrimination, and social identity
Develops skills in communication, navigating difficult conversations, and building organizational capacity
Focuses on creating and implementing action plans, building support for community change
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Reviews summary
Well received social justice course
Learners say this well received course is largely positive for its practical, helpful lessons on community organizing and social justice. Students may enjoy guest lectures as well as the option to review transcripts. Some learners also commend discussion forums and note that the course provides practical steps to effect local change. However, other students indicate that some lectures can be slow or boring.
Covers key concepts in social justice.
"What an incredible experience! It organized several concepts that I already had in my mind about diversity and inclusion, but in an integrated way with other concepts of social justice."
"This is an excellent course for individuals and even organizations to take. It provides an in-depth understanding of the concepts for community organizing, and provides valuable discussions on actual experiences of those who are involved with community organizing."
"If you're interested in learning more about topics such as privilege, racism, and discrimination I really recommend this course. It's very introductory but does a great job at making you think deeper about these issues and how they relate to your life."
Emphasizes practical applications of community organizing.
"This course helped me organize my own goals then develop a much better strategy. This is a great course! Please take the time to learn this information for the people you serve."
"I have worked in this space since 2007. The company I created has consulted two Presidential Offices and dozens of governments. This course helped me organize my own goals then develop a much better strategy. This is a great course! Please take the time to learn this information for the people you serve."
"Great content, very thoughtful, with practical steps for creating change on the local level. "
Provides interactive, thought-provoking assignments and discussions.
"I loved it. I learned alot, not only from the course but also the discusson prompts within the course"
"The testimonies of persons involved in community organising projects and in facilitating intergroup dialogue were very interesting and I learnt a lot from their experiences."
"I highly recommend this course to anybody interested in social justice, community organising and social work. It was a great introduction to the process and steps needed to take action with a group of persons sharing the same concerns."
May lack in-depth information on some areas of interest.
"Overall, great course in its mission. However, i do feel that more in-depth information is needed in several areas of interest. "
"Thought the class was a decent overview of organizing for social justice. Where I thought it lacked was in the community building amongst its students and faculty."
"It's an okay class. The lessons focus on the importance of dialogue and diversity, but don't often give meaningful suggestions for creating groups, plans, or ways to connect further in your community. They do introduce the importance of having and building a strategy, but it's really just a framework."
Some lectures may be slow or boring.
"Weeks 1-3 felt like a pretty good social justice course, and weeks 4-5 felt like an okay organizing course, but they felt disjointed."
"I really like all the information in this course. But the instructor, Dr. Barry C talks wayyyyy to slow. I feel tired listening to him even though he's saying things I am interested in. It takes longer than necessary to say these things!"
"its a bit hard to stay interested because it is very obvious that the professors are reading from a teleprompter."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Community Organizing for Social Justice with these
activities:
Read Organizing for Social Change by Si Kahn
Show steps
This book covers core concepts in social justice and community organizing, providing a solid foundation for the course content.
Show steps
-
Read Chapters 1-3 to understand the principles of social justice and community organizing.
-
Read Chapters 4-6 for practical strategies for building relationships, developing action plans, and mobilizing support.
Watch tutorials on intergroup dialogue techniques
Show steps
Tutorials can provide additional guidance on key skills taught in the course.
Show steps
-
Search for tutorials on Intergroup Dialogue techniques.
-
Watch tutorials to learn about effective communication and conflict resolution strategies.
Review Intergroup Dialogue skills
Show steps
Reviewing Intergroup Dialogue skills will provide a stronger foundation for the course materials.
Show steps
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Organize and review course materials regularly
Show steps
Regularly reviewing materials can enhance comprehension and retention.
Show steps
-
Create a system for organizing notes, assignments, and readings.
-
Review materials before each class and dedicate time to review them after each class.
Develop an action plan for a community issue
Show steps
Creating an action plan will provide hands-on experience in applying the skills taught in the course.
Show steps
-
Identify a community issue you're passionate about.
-
Brainstorm solutions and develop a plan of action.
-
Identify potential allies and resources.
-
Create a timeline for implementation.
Join a study group to discuss course materials and strategies
Show steps
Engaging in peer discussions can enhance comprehension and provide diverse perspectives.
Show steps
-
Find or create a study group with classmates.
-
Schedule regular meetings to discuss assigned readings, concepts, and assignments.
Attend a workshop on community organizing and social justice
Show steps
Workshops offer immersive learning experiences that complement the theoretical content of the course.
Browse courses on
Community Organizing
Show steps
-
Search for workshops on community organizing and social justice.
-
Attend a workshop that aligns with your interests and learning goals.
Start a project that focuses on community organizing or social justice
Show steps
Initiating a project provides practical experience and deepens understanding of course concepts.
Browse courses on
Community Organizing
Show steps
-
Identify a specific issue or problem that you're passionate about.
-
Develop a project plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and timeline.
-
Implement your project and monitor its progress.
-
Evaluate the results of your project and identify areas for improvement.
Read Organizing for Social Change by Si Kahn
Show steps
This book covers core concepts in social justice and community organizing, providing a solid foundation for the course content.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read Chapters 1-3 to understand the principles of social justice and community organizing.
- Read Chapters 4-6 for practical strategies for building relationships, developing action plans, and mobilizing support.
Watch tutorials on intergroup dialogue techniques
Show steps
Tutorials can provide additional guidance on key skills taught in the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for tutorials on Intergroup Dialogue techniques.
- Watch tutorials to learn about effective communication and conflict resolution strategies.
Review Intergroup Dialogue skills
Show steps
Reviewing Intergroup Dialogue skills will provide a stronger foundation for the course materials.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Organize and review course materials regularly
Show steps
Regularly reviewing materials can enhance comprehension and retention.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a system for organizing notes, assignments, and readings.
- Review materials before each class and dedicate time to review them after each class.
Develop an action plan for a community issue
Show steps
Creating an action plan will provide hands-on experience in applying the skills taught in the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a community issue you're passionate about.
- Brainstorm solutions and develop a plan of action.
- Identify potential allies and resources.
- Create a timeline for implementation.
Join a study group to discuss course materials and strategies
Show steps
Engaging in peer discussions can enhance comprehension and provide diverse perspectives.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find or create a study group with classmates.
- Schedule regular meetings to discuss assigned readings, concepts, and assignments.
Attend a workshop on community organizing and social justice
Show steps
Workshops offer immersive learning experiences that complement the theoretical content of the course.
Browse courses on
Community Organizing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for workshops on community organizing and social justice.
- Attend a workshop that aligns with your interests and learning goals.
Start a project that focuses on community organizing or social justice
Show steps
Initiating a project provides practical experience and deepens understanding of course concepts.
Browse courses on
Community Organizing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific issue or problem that you're passionate about.
- Develop a project plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and timeline.
- Implement your project and monitor its progress.
- Evaluate the results of your project and identify areas for improvement.
Career center
Learners who complete Community Organizing for Social Justice will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Community Organizer
Community Organizer
Community Organizers play a critical role in building stronger communities by empowering residents to identify and address the issues that matter most to them. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the core concepts and practical steps involved in community organizing, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively engage with diverse communities, develop action plans, and build support for lasting change. By learning how to form core groups, build organizational capacity, and formulate effective strategies, you will gain a solid foundation for a successful career as a Community Organizer.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers play a vital role in addressing social justice issues and improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Social Work by examining core concepts of social justice and equipping you with practical skills for community organizing. You will learn how to work effectively with diverse populations, assess community needs, develop and implement programs, and advocate for social change. This course will enhance your ability to make a meaningful impact as a Social Worker.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers play a crucial role in leading and managing organizations that are dedicated to social justice and community development. This course provides valuable insights and skills for a successful career in Nonprofit Management. You will learn how to build strong teams, develop effective strategies, manage budgets, and evaluate program outcomes. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to engage with diverse stakeholders, mobilize resources, and drive positive change within communities.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts play a critical role in shaping public policy and addressing social issues. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Policy Analysis by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn how to analyze policies, assess their impact, and develop recommendations for change. The focus on community engagement will equip you with the skills needed to understand the needs of diverse communities and advocate for policies that promote social justice.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners play a vital role in shaping the built environment and promoting sustainable communities. This course provides a valuable foundation for a career in Urban Planning by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn how to engage with communities, assess their needs, and develop plans that promote equity and inclusivity. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to build consensus, resolve conflicts, and advocate for policies that create thriving and just communities.
Community Development Specialist
Community Development Specialist
Community Development Specialists play a critical role in improving the quality of life for residents in underserved communities. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Community Development by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn how to assess community needs, develop and implement programs, and advocate for policies that promote economic development, affordable housing, and access to essential services. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to engage with diverse stakeholders and build partnerships to create lasting change.
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
Diversity and Inclusion Managers play a vital role in creating inclusive and equitable workplaces and communities. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Diversity and Inclusion by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn how to develop and implement diversity and inclusion initiatives, facilitate difficult conversations, and advocate for systemic change. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to build relationships with diverse stakeholders and create a culture of respect and belonging.
Human Rights Advocate
Human Rights Advocate
Human Rights Advocates play a critical role in protecting and promoting human rights for all. This course provides a valuable foundation for a career in Human Rights Advocacy by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn about international human rights law, how to document human rights violations, and how to advocate for change. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to mobilize communities, build coalitions, and hold governments accountable for human rights abuses.
Social Justice Educator
Social Justice Educator
Social Justice Educators play a critical role in raising awareness about social justice issues and empowering students to become agents of change. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in Social Justice Education by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn how to develop and implement social justice curricula, facilitate discussions about race, class, gender, and other forms of oppression, and create a classroom environment that is inclusive and empowering. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to connect students with community organizations and engage them in real-world social justice projects.
Philanthropy Officer
Philanthropy Officer
Philanthropy Officers play a critical role in raising funds and building relationships with donors to support nonprofit organizations and social justice initiatives. This course provides a valuable foundation for a career in Philanthropy by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn how to identify and cultivate major donors, develop fundraising strategies, and manage donor relationships. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to understand the needs of diverse communities and advocate for funding that supports social justice and community development.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists play a vital role in informing the public about social justice issues and holding those in power accountable. This course provides a valuable foundation for a career in Journalism by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn how to report on social justice issues accurately and fairly, how to interview sources from diverse backgrounds, and how to write articles that engage and inform the public. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to understand the needs of diverse communities and give voice to the voiceless.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers play a critical role in advocating for social justice and protecting the rights of individuals and communities. This course provides a valuable foundation for a career in Law by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn about the legal system, how to advocate for clients, and how to use the law to create positive change. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to understand the needs of diverse communities and advocate for policies that promote social justice.
Politician
Politician
Politicians play a critical role in shaping public policy and addressing social justice issues. This course provides a valuable foundation for a career in Politics by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn about the political process, how to develop and implement policies, and how to build coalitions to create change. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to understand the needs of diverse communities and advocate for policies that promote social justice.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers play a vital role in shaping the minds of young people and inspiring them to become active citizens. This course provides a valuable foundation for a career in Teaching by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn how to create inclusive and equitable classrooms, how to teach about social justice issues, and how to empower students to become agents of change. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to build relationships with parents and community members and to create a school environment that is supportive of all students regardless of their background.
Researcher
Researcher
Researchers play a critical role in understanding social problems and developing solutions. This course provides a valuable foundation for a career in Research by examining core concepts of social justice and community organizing. You will learn how to conduct research, analyze data, and communicate your findings to policymakers and the public. The focus on community organizing will equip you with the skills needed to understand the needs of diverse communities and to conduct research that is relevant and impactful.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/onobgz/community
Reading list
We've selected eight books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Community Organizing for Social Justice .
This website provides resources and support for community organizers, with a focus on social justice issues. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about these issues or get involved in them.
This website provides resources and support for community organizers, including training, publications, and networking opportunities. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about community organizing or get involved in it themselves.
This website provides resources and training on community organizing, with a focus on the Industrial Areas Foundation model. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this model or get involved in it.
This website provides resources and training on community organizing, with a focus on the Gamaliel model. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this model or get involved in it.
Explores the concept of community capacity and how it can be built to create stronger, more resilient communities. It provides a framework for understanding and assessing community capacity, and offers strategies for building it.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of social movements, from their history and theories to their strategies and tactics. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about social movements or get involved in them.
This website provides resources and training on dialogue and deliberation, which are essential skills for community organizers. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about these topics or get involved in them.
Save
Is designed to broaden your leadership skills for organizing and working within a community. It helps the reader understand the power of social networks and civic engagement.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/onobgz/community
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Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Michigan
Instructor
Barry Checkoway
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
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Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
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हिंदी
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Good to know
Explores concepts and strategies in community organizing for social justice in a diverse, democratic society
Examines core concepts and practical steps for bringing people together and setting goals for community change
Provides resources on successful programs, individual instructions, and exercises for hands-on learning
Emphasizes the importance of diversity and understanding stereotypes, discrimination, and social identity
Develops skills in communication, navigating difficult conversations, and building organizational capacity
Focuses on creating and implementing action plans, building support for community change
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