Needs assessment should play a significant role in the planning, implementation, and management of effective human services programs. Human services programs typically seek to address four different types of needs: normative, expressed, perceived (or felt), and relative (or comparative). By taking the time to complete a thorough analysis of a particular target populations needs, it is much easier to understand the needs that are the focus of the potential program. For example, one obvious concern in one population might turn out to be merely a symptom of a deeper root problem which is masked. Needs assessments allow human services professionals to pinpoint those programs that will provide the greatest help. In program development as well as evaluation it is essential to match different types of needs to the services a program provides.
In this Discussion, you will explore the four different types of needs and formulate your own definition for each type. You will devise practical examples of each type of need for the homeless population. You will also consider the effect of designing a program to target only one type of need and compare that with one addressing a variety of needs.
To prepare for this Discussion:
Review the assigned section in Chapter 1 in your course textand think about the different types of questions you would need to ask to prepare for a needs assessment.
Review Chapter 2 in your course textand consider how the five stages in program planning help structure program design. Think of the consequences of failing to adequately address any of the steps.
Review Chapter 4 in your course textand think about the four different perspectives on need and how they impact the planning process.
Review the section Needs in the text Poverty: An International Glossary and think about how the four categories described correspond to what is in your textbook.
Consider the homeless population in your own community. Think about how you might determine the normative, expressed, perceived, and relative needs of this population.
With these thoughts in mind:
By Day 4
Post a brief description of the homeless population in your community or the community you selected. Then, explain the normative, expressed, perceived, and relative needs of this population. Finally, explain which type of need you think is the most important to address in a human services program for the homeless. Justify your response with references to the Learning Resources.
GUIDELINES FOR A QUALITY POST:
A quality main post would be about two to three paragraphs in length. It would be well organized and written and provide details to support its positions and viewpoints. For example, it would avoid vagueness. Students sometimes say, This was, or the result of this indicates – it is better to spell out what is meant by this or the results Also, it would draw on resources in the readings, or outside of them as well. Citing sources used is important, too. Also, please make sure to address those to whom you are responding by name.
A quality response would briefly allude to the points made by the poster, add details and different ideas or content to it, and provide a brief evaluation of the impact and quality of the post. Sometimes, it can involve asking a series of questions, but they should be specific and not too open ended. Adding a post that one agrees or endorses the views expressed by the poster is pleasant but sketchy- it is nice to give praise but add your own ideas and input.
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