Action research includes a variety of methods engaged in by practitioners who wish to learn more about their work and the possibility of constructively changing it. This paper describes an action research dissertation project that focused on the work of a group of community activists to construct new understandings of their work and, as a result,…

This case study aimed to generate explanations for the lack of integration of physical activity (PA) promotion in general practices of Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia. This explanatory study adopted a qualitative approach, based on three techniques; focus groups (n = 3), semi-structured (n = 25) and short individual interviews (n = 5). These…

Force field analysis encourages members to examine the probability of reaching agreed-upon goals. It can help groups avoid working toward goals that are unlikely to be reached. In every situation are three forces: forces that encourage maintenance of the status quo or change; driving or helping forces that push toward change; and restraining…

This extension education publication contains insights and tools to help community members develop a strategic vision and action plan for their community. Presented first are an executive summary and an introduction that includes 10 reasons for a strategic visioning process. The first section, which deals with harnessing the power of vision,…

This paper examines the development of the concept of the "public" and the "people" in U.S. society. Community problem-solving is an art, and like the art of dance or the game of soccer, the dispositions and skills of communal life are learned by doing and reflecting on what has been done. This essay discusses the "arts" of democracy, including:…

Although counseling literature addresses within-group diversity among racial/ethnic groups in this country, seldom do studies examine the interpersonal dynamics within communities where minorities have fostered interdependence, cooperation, and acceptance of diversity among themselves. This paper presents an overview of some critical factors which…

This document presents modified and updated papers from a symposium held to examine alcohol and drug abuse prevention efforts worldwide. It contains 32 papers from 11 countries; papers include: (1) "Community Action on Alcohol Problems: The Demonstration Project as an Unstable Mixture" (Robin Room); (2) "Perspectives on the…

The entire issue of the journal is devoted to a discussion of campus ministry and higher education. The need for campus ministry is examined. Evaluation of campus ministry and issues surrounding campus ministry are also discussed. (EJT)

Community reaction to an address by a speaker for Gay Liberation at Schroeder High School, Webster, New York is described. (DE)

Attitudes toward alcohol abuse are changing in Indian country. A number of separate but complementary attitudes are creating a circle of support in the fight against alcohol abuse. These new attitudes hold that: (1) Native Americans are not condemned by their race to a destiny of alcohol-related problems, but, rather, have a choice; (2) abstinence…

This booklet is written from the perspective that small towns can survive in changing times with the right leadership. It is intended for use by educators involved with community development or by extension educators. The attitudes and behaviors of leaders are key factors that will help communities cope with change. No longer will a town survive…

This handbook offers a variety of prevention and therapeutic services that can be tailored to meet the unique characteristics of a school and community. In section 1, an overview of the dropout problem and the comprehensive dropout prevention strategy are presented. In section 2, on needs assessment, data collection, objective selection, and…

This guide, largely a product of the Language and Orientation Resource Center's (LORC) "Working Session on Program Development for Refugee Women," is a resource for use by refugees and by persons and organizations working with refugees. The main part of the guide is divided into five sections: (1) an introduction to recent attention to them, and a…

This conference report presents research strategies and ethical considerations concerning consumer participation in the health care process. Section 1, background, lists the beginnings of self-care in health, the programs that have sprung up, and their supporting organizations, and the medical tasks performed by the consumers in those programs.…

Utilizing primarily interview data, one midwestern War on Poverty agency is examined with respect to the alternative, often conflicting ways it was perceived by various types of program participants and interested observers. The relationship of the local agency with the Office of Economic Opportunity is surveyed, reasons for conflict both within…