Community Engagement

Course description

The value of relationship-building and corporate social responsibility has gained traction in recent years and most organizations recognize the importance of community engagement. When launching new initiatives that impact wider audiences, the question is no longer “should we engage?” but rather “when and how to engage?”

Communicators increasingly need to be able to identify and analyze community groups in order to plan strategic engagement activities that advance the organization’s mission and strategic priorities. This course will examine key concepts in community engagement and how effective relationship-building can lead to communication and organizational success. You will learn about internal and external groups in different contexts and examine various methods and techniques used to facilitate the engagement process. Topics include: stakeholder theory and models; stakeholder analysis and mapping; the engagement planning process including evaluation techniques; methods and tools for engagement; strategies for inclusive community engagement; issues and conflict management; communication and reporting. You will be exposed to a variety of resources from around the world to create a global context.

This course embodies the foundational skills of teamwork, critical thinking, analysis, problem solving and communication that will contribute to your personal and professional growth. You will learn the principles and values of inclusive engagement strategies that can be directly applied to the workplace. Upon completion of this course, you will have the knowledge and tools to work within the private or public sectors, for government, non-profits or corporations.