Course Description – Community Relations (COMREL04)

Course Code: COMREL04
Course Title: Community Relations
Program: BASOCW (Bachelor of Arts in Social Work)
Credit Hours: 3
Level: Undergraduate – Year 3/4

Course Overview

This course introduces students to the theory and practice of building, managing, and sustaining positive relationships between organizations, institutions, and the communities they serve. It explores how effective community relations foster trust, participation, collaboration, and social development. Students will critically examine strategies for community engagement, conflict resolution, advocacy, and partnerships in diverse social, cultural, and political contexts. Practical emphasis is placed on communication skills, participatory approaches, and ethical considerations in community-based work.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Explain the principles, scope, and importance of community relations in social work and development.

2. Apply communication and interpersonal skills to enhance collaboration with community stakeholders.

3. Analyze community structures, power dynamics, and cultural values that affect development initiatives.

4. Design and implement effective community engagement and outreach strategies.

5. Demonstrate knowledge of conflict resolution, mediation, and consensus-building in community settings.

6. Evaluate the role of advocacy, policy, and partnerships in strengthening community relations.

Key Topics Covered

• Introduction to Community Relations: Concepts, Principles, and Scope

• Theories and Models of Community Engagement

• Community Structures, Norms, and Leadership Dynamics

• Stakeholder Analysis and Mapping

• Communication Skills in Community Relations (listening, dialogue, negotiation)

• Community Mobilization and Participation Techniques

• Conflict Resolution, Mediation, and Peacebuilding

• Advocacy and Policy Influence in Community Work

• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Community Relations

• Ethical Issues in Community Relations and Social Work Practice

• Building Partnerships with Government, NGOs, and Civil Society

• Case Studies: Successful Community Relations Initiatives

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of key concepts and strategies in community relations.

• Apply participatory approaches to foster trust and collaboration in communities.

• Analyze and address conflicts through appropriate community relations strategies.

• Advocate for community needs and influence policy through effective engagement.

• Work ethically and professionally in diverse community contexts.

Assessment Methods

• Class Participation & Discussions (10%)

• Fieldwork/Community Engagement Report (15%)

• Mid-Semester Test (20%)

• Group Project & Presentation (15%)

• Final Examination (40%)

Recommended References

• Ife, J. – Community Development in an Uncertain World

• Ledwith, M. – Community Development: A Critical Approach

• Kenny, S. – Developing Communities for the Future

• Chambers, R. – Whose Reality Counts? Putting the First Last

• Case studies and government/community policy documents

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