James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2021

EV5951 - Development in Practice

Subject Description

This course critically investigates the tools used in the design, implementation and evaluation of development programs. Attention is given to how development workers operate in the field, and how different approaches to development policy and practice generate different outcomes. Through the use of local and international case studies, as well as guest presentations by development professionals, the course will introduce students to a range of development practice operators and contexts. The core focus of this course is on how development projects and policies are implemented, with an emphasis on continual comparison against the theoretical perspectives that inform the values, assumptions, rationales and ethics underpinning development practice. Students are encouraged to critically reflect on their own positionality in development landscapes while acquiring the necessary technical and communication skills required for global development professionals. Particular consideration will be given to ongoing debates to move beyond business-as-usual approaches in order to do development differently.

Learning Outcomes

• demonstrate an understanding of key social, political, economic and cultural issues that confront practitioners in the delivery of strong development outcomes
• critically appraise development projects on the basis of likely political and institutional constraints
• demonstrate an understanding of the relevance of different theoretical perspectives and debates to practice and policy issues
• demonstrate an understanding of the strengths, weaknesses and limitations of different approaches to measuring and conducting development projects
• apply technical and communication skills and strategies to address development challenges in a critically reflexive way
• work collaboratively on group projects and participate in informed debates on global development

Subject Assessment

• Written > Field report - (15%) - Group
• Written > Project plan - (35%) - Individual
• Written > Proposal - (50%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

None

Availabilities