Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit introduces students to place-based and participatory approaches and tools for development at the local and regional (sub-national) scales. The unit takes a 'hands-on' approach, and allows students to develop skills which are useful not only in development but also in many other types of work in the public policy, private and voluntary sectors. The central themes covered include techniques for place-based assessments, project design, stakeholder and power analysis, participatory engagement, and monitoring and evaluation. Specific techniques covered include participatory appraisals and the logical framework approach as well as a suite of other participatory methods.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)Face to face
Not available in 2025OnlineOnline timetabled
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate knowledge of a range of key place-based tools and approaches used to identify, design and evaluate development programs; (2) critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of participatory tools and place-based approaches; and (3) design a place-based development strategy based on a real-world example.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) seminar presentation (participatory tool); (2) critical reading & writing, based on reading and reflection logs and one essay; and (3) individual place-based project, comprising a place description and a project presentation. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Linda Robson
Contact hours
lectures/in-class workshops: 2 x 2 hours per week (for 9 weeks)
reading/researching/writing: 10 hours per week (for 10 weeks)
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.