Asset-based Approach

Question 1

What two suppositions underlie the asset-based approach?

Answer 1

• every individual has needs and strengths/assets
• every individual & their context has a unique combination of assets/capacities to address challenges/needs

Question 2

What are the key characteristics of the asset-based approach?

Answer 2

• strong focus on assets & capabilities
• belief in the presence of assets even in dire circumstances
• enablement of self-determination
• emphasis on creating networks & building relationships
• sustainability
• empowers individuals & families
• intrinsic creativity, control & power
• collaboration & dynamic partnerships

Question 3

Where did the asset-based model develop/originate?

Answer 3

It developed from community development work in the USA where citizens had a voice in problem solving.

Question 4

Previously, the Needs-based approach had been popular.

What were some negative consequences of this model?

Answer 4

• it created a cycle of dependence on experts
• it limited collaboration for problem solving
• it reinforced despondency

Question 5

Do “assets” refer only to tangible items?

Answer 5

No, assets also include intrinsic strengths such as personality, innovation and disposition

Question 6

What is the role of the professional in the asset-based approach?

Answer 6

• connect clients to assets & networks
• offer shared knowledge
• collect data about assets & capacities
• collaborate with clients

Question 7

What is the role of the professional in the needs-based approach?

Answer 7

• act as experts with exclusive knowledge
• collect data about problems & deficits
• label difficulties
• provide a service

Question 8

What is an asset map?

Answer 8

A graphic representation of assets & capacities of an individual and local institutions.

Question 9

What are included in asset inventories?

Answer 9

• individual capacity inventories
• inventories of local associations
• inventories of local institutions

Question 10

Examples of individual capacities/assets

Answer 10

Talents, experiences, dispositions/personal characteristics, emotive characteristics, knowledge, learning & life skills, cognitive skills

Question 11

Information from an asset assessment is not useful unless…

Answer 11

it enables mobilisation (connecting individuals to networks to work on solutions)

Question 12

What is one problem which may be encountered in an asset assessment?

Answer 12

The nature of the questions is very personal which may cause clients to be reluctant to answer.

Question 13

What is asset-mapping?

Answer 13

The process of developing an asset map where strengths & assets of individuals and contexts are identified for mobilisation.

Question 14

Familiar constructs/role players in asset-mapping

Answer 14

The individual
The school
The classroom
The family
The peer group
Citizens associations
Local institutions
The whole social system

Question 15

Examples of types of skills & knowledge

Answer 15

• Food skills
• childcare skills
• health skills
• sales skills
• music skills

Question 16

Examples of personal characteristics

Answer 16

• self awareness
• empathy
• tolerance
• social skills
• time management
• positive attitude towards problems
• problem solving capacities
• acceptance

Question 17

Examples of cognitive skills

Answer 17

• memory
• attention
• planning
• reflection

Question 18

Examples of emotive characteristics

Answer 18

• adaptability
• passion/determination
• recognising feelings

Question 19

Examples of life skills

Answer 19

Self-regulation
Self-awareness
Self-soothing
Self-confidence
Group skills
Survival skills

Question 20

Examples of Behavioural skills

Answer 20

• making friends
• goal setting
• interpersonal skills
• learning from past experiences
• leadership

Question 21

What are examples of “civilian organisations”?

Answer 21

• places of worship
• NGOs
• extra-mural activities

Question 22

Examples of local institutions

Answer 22

• library
• hospital
• businesses
• clinics
  community projects

Question 23

Whose responsibility does change become in the asset-based approach?

Answer 23

Change is a shared responsibility

Question 24

Synonyms which have been used to refer to the asset-based approach

Answer 24

• glass half-full approach
• capacity-focused alternative
• bottom-up approach

Question 25

Advantages of the asset-based approach

Answer 25

• change is a shared responsibility
• solutions are practical and relevant
• an environment of mutual support and care is established
• individual capacity is recognised and developed
• ownership is encouraged
• solutions are more immediate and flexible

Question 26

Why is the asset-based approach seen as more sustainable and cost-effective?

Answer 26

It focuses on the mobilisations of existing assets

Question 27

How does the asset-based approach propose an alternative route for addressing barriers to learning?

Answer 27

By identifying, accessing & mobilising assets

Question 28

Why should the asset-based approach be used in SA?

Answer 28

• it is multi systemic/ can be used across the spectrum of teaching & supporting professions
• aligns with the principles of inclusive education and the bio-ecological theoretical model