This assignment requires students to systematically get to know themselves and a community of their choice by examining their membership role as “outsiders” or “insiders.” Self¬reflection, community awareness, coherent and sound arguments supported by textbook readings, interviews and participant¬observation are required. In addition to the paper, students are expected to prepare a short presentation on lessons learned. Find a way to represent the community beyond words.
What is a community? The World Health Organization defines community as a group of people, often living in a defined geographical area, who share a common culture, values, and norms. Members of a community gain their personal/social identity by sharing common beliefs. They exhibit awareness of their identity as a group, and share common needs and a commitment to meeting them. Communities may also be based on shared interests or characteristics, such as race/ethnicity, language, sexual orientation, age, or occupation. When we define and name a community, a part of ourselves decides what is included and excluded based on what we know and who we are. This subjectivity is important and must be acknowledged in our work as community health educators.
Decide upon what community you want to describe and which the aspects of the community you want to highlight – health concerns, cultural issues, language, food, norms, political and economic issues, etc. Interview at least 3 community members and select at least 3 textbook readings that resonate with what you are learning. Integrate quotes from the community and from the readings into your paper.