"This module provides key conceptual and theoretical elements for participants to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying processes and methodologies that guide the design, implementation and evaluation of a communication strategy. There are many definitions and approaches that vary depending upon the type of communication approach, and the specific development and social change issues being addressed. While this is not meant to be an academic text and is purposefully written in a way that is accessible to multiple audiences, it does include relevant academic references for those readers interested in the rich communication for development literature. Chapter One includes a general approach to strategic planning in social organisations. It is expected to help assist understanding of how a communication strategy must be formulated as an integral component of the policies and strategic focus areas of the organisation. Chapter Two briefly discusses key concepts and theoretical shifts around communication, culture, development and social change processes. As communication processes often entail a political perspective, these processes are linked with the goal of strengthening democracy and citizenship, as well as with the achievement of development objectives such as the Sustainable Development Goals and their corresponding targets. This chapter also discusses inclusive perspectives, particularly in relation to gender and human rights. Chapter Three includes a brief history of the evolution of conceptual approaches in the field of communication for development, many of which are derived from important transformations in development efforts over the last 70 years, as well as reformulations of the role played by communication in those processes. Chapters Three and Four introduce key communication models and strategies for social and behaviour change. These chapters emphasise conceptual elements and highlight specific methodological elements that are discussed in detail in the Participant’s Module. Finally, Chapter Five provides core concepts and definitions about designing, implementing and evaluating communication strategies for development and social change, including formative research, strategy design, and monitoring and evaluation. Specific guidance on how to implement each of these steps is provided in the Participant’s Module." (Overview, p.vii)