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Methods for Development Practice and Workshop in Applied Development
This one-year sequence course, which comprises both “Methods for Development Practice” (“Methods”) and the “Workshop in Applied Development” (the “EPD Workshop”), forms the core of the Development Management track in the Economic and Political Development (EPD) concentration. This track aims to enhance both a critical and informed understanding of the development field and the practical skills necessary for successful development work. Skills developed through the course of the year include: problem-solving, information gathering, developing and using analytical frameworks, knowledge of ethics, managing stakeholder relations, working in teams and project evaluation. Students who have already had extensive professional experience in the management of development projects (four years or more) may find this course redundant and should consider the Development Policy Analysis track for more in-depth work on particular development policy issues, or they may want to propose a third alternative based on their career objectives.
The first semester in the sequence aims to 1) provide a critical discussion of and concrete practice with a variety of methods important for successful and ethical development practice, and 2) form workshop teams that will begin negotiating with clients, developing preliminary terms of reference and planning for the projects that will be carried out in the second semester. Student input is encouraged in the formation of projects so that they match interests and skills. Workshop teams work with a variety of clients from large multilateral organizations and governments to small community-based NGOs and movements. The focus of workshop projects is also diverse and significant overlap often occurs with the fields of human rights and humanitarian affairs. The Methods course in the fall semester – U6827 – includes a class session on Wednesday (two sections, at 11:00-12:50 and 4:10-6:00) and a lab session on Friday (two sections, at 9:00-10:30 and 10:30-12:00).
Please note the following about the EPD Workshop component:
The EPD Workshop is a unique and challenging experience. It provides an opportunity to apply what you have learned from coursework and past experience directly to interesting and challenging development projects. It is an opportunity to learn firsthand about the workings of particular development organizations and the challenges of development work, particularly as a consultant. It is also an intensive team process that, although challenging, provides an experience in working with a team of diverse colleagues with a range of skills and experience.
The EPD Workshop is a course – U8825 – that meets on Wednesdays at 4:10-6:00 pm in the spring semester. Although this is not a traditional class, it does meet regularly. This time slot is used to bring all the teams together a few times during the semester and for teams to meet regularly with each other and their faculty advisor. Thus, you must register for this class in January to participate in the workshop and you cannot register for another class in this time slot.
EPD Workshop projects are expected to be announced in October, and there will be another application process to match students with projects. Please note that participation in a workshop project is contingent on satisfactory performance in the Methods course and compliance with the SIPA Code of Academic and Professional Conduct (see below).
Although the EPD Workshop course begins officially in January, work on projects begins soon after project teams are formed (usually by early November). Once the teams are formed, they will meet with their faculty advisor, appoint a budget officer, meet or talk with their client, develop a workplan and a budget. Some projects will have a field component in January and as such there will be a significant amount of work to be done in the fall semester to prepare for fieldwork. Thus, by applying for the EPD Workshop you are committing to a process that begins in October and continues through early May.
The EPD Workshop is an intensive process and, although a course, will require much more time than a typical course. You are encouraged to think about the time commitment required of an internship (15-20 hours per week) with some ebbs and flows in the intensity of the work. You should consider carefully whether you are in the position to take on this commitment before you apply. If you are selected for an EPD Workshop team, you will be expected to schedule your other courses, internships, personal travel and other commitments to accommodate your work on the EPD Workshop project.
Most EPD Workshop projects include a field component, in the US or abroad. Field travel depends on the needs of the project, as determined through discussions among the client, the faculty advisor and the team. Travel usually takes place over the winter break (January) and/or spring break (mid-March). Field travel is not guaranteed, but is subject to budget, security and other considerations.
Priority will be given to students registered in the EPD program, and we will not be able to accommodate non-concentrators until all EPD students have been accommodated.
STUDENTS WITH HONOR CODE VIOLATIONS OR FAILING GRADES IN METHODS ARE NOT ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE EPD WORKSHOP. We encourage you to read the SIPA Code of Academic and Professional Conduct.