detailed course outline for

BASOCW Social Development (SOCDEV04)

(Suggested for a 14–16 week semester structure, adaptable to contact hours)

Module 1: Introduction to Social Development

• Definition, scope, and importance of social development

• Distinction between social development, economic development, and human development

• Historical evolution of social development thinking

• Key theories of social change (modernization, dependency, world-systems, capability approach)

Module 2: Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks

• Human rights–based approach to development

• Social justice, equity, and inclusivity

• Gender and development perspectives

• Sustainable development and the SDGs (UN Agenda 2030)

Module 3: Social Development Indicators and Measurement

• Measuring well-being and quality of life

• Human Development Index (HDI), Gender Inequality Index (GII), Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)

• Social indicators: education, health, housing, employment, social security

• Critiques of conventional measurement approaches

Module 4: Key Issues in Social Development

• Poverty, inequality, and social exclusion

• Unemployment and labor market challenges

• Education and literacy as tools of social empowerment

• Health, HIV/AIDS, and community well-being

• Gender disparities and empowerment

Module 5: Social Policy and Institutions

• Concept of social policy and its role in development

• Welfare systems and social protection mechanisms

• Role of government, NGOs, and community-based organizations

• International organizations and social development (UN, World Bank, IMF, AU, SADC)

Module 6: Community Participation and Empowerment

• Participatory approaches to development

• Community mobilization and empowerment strategies

• Social capital and networks in development

• Case studies of successful community-based projects

Module 7: Program Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation

• Steps in social development project planning

• Monitoring and evaluation frameworks (logical framework, theory of change)

• Participatory evaluation methods

• Indicators for measuring program effectiveness

Module 8: Contemporary Challenges and Future Directions

• Globalization and its impact on social development

• Climate change, migration, and urbanization challenges

• Technology, digital inclusion, and social transformation

• The future of social development: trends and policy directions

Teaching Methods

• Lectures, seminars, and group discussions

• Case study analysis (local and international contexts)

• Field visits or community engagement projects

• Research assignments and presentations

Assessment Methods

• Continuous assessment: quizzes, essays, group projects (40%)

• Midterm test (20%)

• Final examination (40%)

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