Abstract
The purpose of the study was to implement the Appreciative Inquiry (AI) model in the
context of community development with a previously disadvantaged community in
the area of Snake Park in Soweto. AI is an unconventional method to organisational
and community development and needs to be understood in terms of its principles,
perspective and implementation. The model has been implemented in various
contexts such as organisational development, education and health amongst other.
However, more evidence on its application and outcomes in community development
is still needed.
The methodology used in the study was AI which complies with most of the
principles of Participatory Action research (PAR) as the researcher engaged the
participants in the study as co-researchers throughout all the phases of the study.
The study was based on bringing about some social change in the community and
lives of the participants. AI was used as a research design as the researcher and the
participants used the Four D cycle and the various tools and activities covered in
literature on AI to collect data in the study. The study also took the form of a case
study as it was limited to the specific case of the participants within their community.
The goal of the study was to describe the process of applying AI in community
development. The objectives of the study were, firstly, to describe the process of the
facilitation of the four phases of AI; secondly, to assess the outcomes or findings of
the facilitation of the four phases of AI; and lastly to make recommendations on the
application of AI in community development based on lessons learned.
Qualitative data were collected through the use of different tools and activities which
sought to uncover the strengths, assets and potentials that the participants possess
internally as individuals, as a collective in the group, and also within their community.
Data was analysed using qualitative data analysis methods covered in theory and
was analysed with the full participation of the participants.
The study yielded positive results about the application and relevance of the AI
model in community development. There were valuable lessons that were learnt
about the model in community development especially in the South African context.
It is believed that the study will add value to the knowledge that already exists on the...
M.A. (Social Work)