Date of Award
Summer 2010
Degree Type
Thesis
Department
Education
First Advisor
Karen Monkman, PhD
Abstract
The purpose of this case study was to explore how participants of a community organization are engaged in the problem solving and decision-making process regarding neighborhood issues and concerns. In addition, this study explored the informal education process embedded within the problem solving and decision-making processes and the various forms of empowerment that exist within the organization. My data collection involved participant and non-participant observations, four in-depth interviews, and analysis of organizational and media documents. This organization’s power-based confrontational approach to organizing consisted of local leadership development, community-led outreach and action, and community and organizational identified accomplishments. Community participants engaged in a representative and participatory democratic process, which created an informal space for learning. This democratic and informal education process provided opportunity for individual and collective empowerment.
Recommended Citation
Delaney, Maurya, "Understanding Empowerment, Informal Education, and Access to Decision-Making in a Community Organization" (2010). College of Education Theses and Dissertations. 8.
https://via.library.depaul.edu/soe_etd/8