University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 5

This module is designed to provide students with the advanced skills necessary to plan, develop and evaluate community and family related projects. The emphasis in particular will be on identification of goals, clarification of strategies and resources and techniques for strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation. The module, therefore, provides students with the opportunity to further develop and implement theoretical and practical skills in project planning, development and evaluation strategies appropriate to Community and Family studies.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the importance of planning and the planning process
  2. Fully establish aims, objectives and goals for community and family related development projects
  3. Prepare and develop various types of development and strategic plans
  4. Demonstrate an awareness of the importance of the developmental phase of community and family related support structures and initiatives
  5. Demonstrate an understanding of the various types of evaluation; and acquire the skills necessary to prepare, implement and review evaluation strategies
  6. Demonstrate models of best practice in relation to monitoring and evaluation of community and family related initiatives
Assessments
  • Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Just About Managing? Effective Management for Voluntary Organisations and Community Groups," by Adirondack, S.
    Publisher: London Voluntary Service.
  2. "Creating and Implementing Your Strategic Plan: A Workbook for Public and Non-profit Organisation" by Bryson, J.M. and Alston F.K.
    Publisher: Jossey-Bass.
  3. "Consensus Organizing – A Community" by Ohmer, M. and DeMasi, K
    Publisher: Sage Publications.
  4. "The Game Plan: Governance with Foresight," by Olsen, J.B. and Eadie, D.
    Publisher: Council of State Planning Agencies.
  5. "Strategy Safari: A Guided Tour Through the Wilds of Strategy Management" by Mintzberg, H., Ahlstrand, B. and Lampel,
    Publisher: Free Press.
The above information outlines module SP4101: "Planning, Developing and Evaluating Projects." and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.