I found Dr. Richard Smith’s presentation to class to be most interesting. I learned many new ideas and concepts. I found the comparison of US welfare philosophy (need-based) versus European welfare policy (entitlement-based) to be very thought provoking. Some other concepts I learned about included social welfare as investment, absolute vs. relative poverty, and the Human Development Index.
Dr. Smith discussed the common assumption that growth is always good. Before the lecture, I ascribed to this philosophy. I thought that any growth afforded the population the opportunity to have improved quality of life. The thought that all growth is good is also countered by the chapter of economic development is out textbook that rapid economic growth is often unsustainable and leads to other social and economic problems.
I approached Dr. Smith after his lecture to inquire about his opinion regarding WSU-Department of Urban Planning’s Economic Development certificate. He mentioned that he is more familiar with the National Development Council’s professional development certificate program which he completed. I am very interested in this alternative certification as it seems more flexible and would require less time to complete. Not to mention Dr. Smith indicated it is widely recognized.
Dr. Smith’ said that it would be unlikely to utilize clinical skills and economic development. You would use one while neglecting the other. This is a problem for me as I am pursuing interpersonal practice, but have a strong interest and passion for macro development and research. Dr. Smith mentioned that the US places much emphasis on mental health services and less on development and the reverse is often true globally. Considering my work prospects for clinical positions far outweigh development ones, I am seeking an interpersonal practice track. But, I still desire more education and understanding when it comes to development. I may just have to pursue a dual licensing endorsement for clinical and macro.
I thoroughly enjoyed Dr. Smith’s presentation and information related to development. I am excited to see how macro practice can be incorporated into my graduate-level education.
~dgb
Dr. Smith discussed the common assumption that growth is always good. Before the lecture, I ascribed to this philosophy. I thought that any growth afforded the population the opportunity to have improved quality of life. The thought that all growth is good is also countered by the chapter of economic development is out textbook that rapid economic growth is often unsustainable and leads to other social and economic problems.
I approached Dr. Smith after his lecture to inquire about his opinion regarding WSU-Department of Urban Planning’s Economic Development certificate. He mentioned that he is more familiar with the National Development Council’s professional development certificate program which he completed. I am very interested in this alternative certification as it seems more flexible and would require less time to complete. Not to mention Dr. Smith indicated it is widely recognized.
Dr. Smith’ said that it would be unlikely to utilize clinical skills and economic development. You would use one while neglecting the other. This is a problem for me as I am pursuing interpersonal practice, but have a strong interest and passion for macro development and research. Dr. Smith mentioned that the US places much emphasis on mental health services and less on development and the reverse is often true globally. Considering my work prospects for clinical positions far outweigh development ones, I am seeking an interpersonal practice track. But, I still desire more education and understanding when it comes to development. I may just have to pursue a dual licensing endorsement for clinical and macro.
I thoroughly enjoyed Dr. Smith’s presentation and information related to development. I am excited to see how macro practice can be incorporated into my graduate-level education.
~dgb
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