Concept of Program Planning

Groups achieve their objectives through programs that are split into achievable targets, tasks and activities. Therefore, deciding on appropriate programs becomes very important for the progress and development of group and its members.

Providing a program of activities is one of the main tasks of a group. Planning the group’s activities in advance helps a group run smoothly because:

• Members understand and accept their responsibilities Optimum utilization of resources
• Better coordination between group members, agency and the worker in accomplishment of objectives

Programs in group work have to be effective since the groups’ effectiveness is largely dependent on its programs. Program planning is an instrument in the hands of the group and the worker and its efficient use results in feasible, well thought out programs. Program planning in social group work has to follow certain principles, termed by Trecker (1955) as the ‘criteria of effectiveness’:

• Program should grow out of the needs and interests of the individuals who compose the group.
• Program should take into account such factors as age of group members, cultural background, and economic differences
• Program should provide individuals with experiences and opportunities which they voluntarily choose to pursue because of their inherent values
• Program should be flexible and varied to satisfy a variety of needs and interests and to afford a maximum number of opportunities for participation
• Program should evolve from the simple to the more complex with movement coming as a result of group growth in ability and readiness. Movement from initially “personal” to “social” or “community” concerns should be an ultimate objective if our programs are to have a greater social significance.