The emergence of the emergence-based approach in community practice. Issue 2 (3rd April 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shemer, Orna; Agmon-Snir, Hagai
• Is Part Of: Journal of community practice. Volume 27:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 133
• Page End: 150
• Publication Date: 2019-04-03
• Subjects: Complexity -- Cynefin Framework -- emergence-based approach -- engagement -- outcomes-based approach; Community organization -- Periodicals; Social work administration -- Periodicals; Community development -- Periodicals; 361.05
• DOI: 10.1080/10705422.2019.1616345
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1070-5422

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Community practitioners are often challenged to work in complex environments and situations that naturally occur in communities. This article focuses on the theoretical and practical use of the Emergence-Based Approach that is relevant for work in complex community situations. Using this approach, the practitioner encourages the emergence of novel ideas and initiatives, and engages a decentralized network of activists, helping them develop their initiatives. Using a field study, we compare this approach to the traditional Outcomes-Based Approach. Although their mindsets are very different, and even contradict one another, we suggest practical ways to combine the two in an effective way.