ACM655 Arts and Community Development (3 cr.)

This course explores vitality in geographic communities and the unique role played by culture. The dynamic relationships that exist between artists, cultural organizations, and communities and ways that culture can be an active agent or catalyst for economic, social, and civic development are explored. Topics include a historical overview of the community development field, concepts of creative community building, and how the civic and economic impact of the arts can be measured. Case studies of cooperative partnerships are explored. Specific areas of concentration include arts-based community-building strategies, and how indicators are used to measure outcomes are explored.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Discuss the unique role of arts in the development of social and economic capital.
2. Analyze characteristics of community development programs, including who is benefiting and what are the power relationships.
3. Identify and assess the assets of geographic communities.
4. Discuss economic and social indicators relevant to community development.
5. Articulate the process of engaging community members in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of community projects.
6. Design effective, measurable community development programs that integrate cultural assets.