Available in 2024
Course code

SOCS3100

Units

10 units

Level

3000 level

Course handbook

Description

This course provides an understanding of how to formulate, implement, manage and evaluate social programs and social policies by developing skills in systematic reviews, policy briefs, social audit, social impact analysis, and needs analysis in relation to real-life case studies. Includes consideration of ethical issues and development of skills in dealing with clients and institutional stakeholders.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Online

  • Semester 1 - 2024

Callaghan

  • Semester 2 - 2024

Ourimbah

  • Semester 2 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Identify and critically appraise a range of theoretical perspectives, research methods and debates on policy development, program management and evaluation.

2. Critically appraise and discuss the relevant literature.

3. Apply principles of program management to develop a program management tool.

4. Apply relevant theories to the analysis of a case study in policy development.


Content

This course provides a grounded examination and skill development in policy development, program management and evaluation. It contributes to the development of core skills including critical thinking and analysis, problem solving, communication skills, and commitment to ethical practice.

Topics covered may include:

1. Social, Political and Economic environment: Competing perspectives and debates.

2. The nature of policy development, program management and evaluation.

3. Ethical issues: Approaches to ethical decision making.

4. Influencing policy processes and agendas.

5. Project and program design, implementation and evaluation.

6. Strategies and skills in policy development, program management and evaluation.

7. Using research methods and tools.

8. Resource management.

9. Practical aspects of information systems.

10. Financial management.

11. Being a reflective-practitioner in the policy, program and evaluation process.


Assumed knowledge

40 units of study at 1000 level.


Assessment items

Quiz: 2 x Quizzes

Case Study / Problem Based Learning: Case Study

Written Assignment: Develop Briefing Paper or Evaluation Critique


Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Online

Lecture-1
  • Online 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s)
Tutorial-1
  • Online 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s)

Semester 2 - 2024 - Callaghan

Lecture-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1

Semester 2 - 2024 - Ourimbah

Lecture-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1

Course outline