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This course investigates the characteristics and emergent role of NGOs in contemporary society within the context of challenges and issues related to social development. Learning will be integrated through the use of international and New Zealand case studies.
NGOs (sometimes known as not-for-profit or third sector organisations) are involved in the provision of a broad range of human services. They include organisations that assist people with psychosocial issues at the micro-practice end of the continuum, and community work organisations that support people in their efforts to advocate for and achieve social change at a more macro-system level. This course explores how the roles of NGOs are constructed and constrained by the social and political environments in which they are situated. They nevertheless carve out opportunities to challenge oppression and promote social justice. International research into disasters illustrates the complex tensions faced by NGOs and INGOs in their efforts to support and strengthen communities. The location of the course in Christchurch offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into these tensions, and how these are dealt with following the Canterbury earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. Presenters include local researchers and experts who bring the practical contribution of critical social theory to life.AimsThe aims of the course are to:• Advance students’ knowledge and understanding of the roles and functions of local and global non-governmental organisations • Examine the work of non-governmental organisations and intergovernmental organisations in the promotion of human rights and social justice• Explore common interests, values, challenges, and dilemmas faced by NGOs in social development• Critically examine issues of power in relationships between NGOs, culturally diverse communities, and the state• Introduce social theories relevant to a critical examination of the implications of NGO involvement in the provision of social welfare and wellbeing related services
On the successful completion of the course, the student will be able to competently demonstrate:An introductory knowledge of the roles and contributions of NGOs as agents of social developmentAn understanding of the historical evolution of NGOs and the relevance of this to their present day activitiesAn appreciation of major issues faced by NGOs in pursuing their goals, including funding and contracting issues, and relationships of powerAn ability to discuss principles underlying international aid programmes, and to consider questions and concerns that arise around the roles of international NGOsAn ability to consider and theorise about NGOs as part of a network of human service providers, within complex social, political, and economic contexts
This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attributes specified below:
Critically competent in a core academic discipline of their award
Students know and can critically evaluate and, where applicable, apply this knowledge to topics/issues within their majoring subject.
Any 30 points of Human Services at 200 level including HSRV204. Students without this prerequisite but with at least 60 points at 200 level or above in appropriate courses may enter the course with the permission of the Head of School.
Kate van Heugten
Domestic fee $746.00
International fee $3,038.00
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see Language, Social and Political Sciences .