SWRK2001Social Work Theory and Practice A

Course handbook

Description

Emphasises the linkage between theory and two domains of social work practice:

1. Working with people with an addiction; and

2. Care and protection of children.

Two of the social work methods (community work and casework) are introduced. An enhanced understanding of group dynamics and skills in working effectively in groups are pivotal in the course. The course also focuses on the development of critical thinking skills as the social work practice areas are examined.

Availability2019 Course Timetables

Learning outcomes

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

1. Enhance understanding of social work values, including social justice, rights, respect and equality, and demonstrate a capacity to apply these to practice examples.

2. Explore, articulate and begin to self manage own values and beliefs in response to practice situations.

3. Gain a beginning understanding of community work and casework methods of social work practice, including approaches to assessment and intervention.

4. Enhance ability to work as part of a team and to produce work both independently and as part of a group.

5. Demonstrate writing skills appropriate for a range of purposes and audiences in social work practice.

6. Increase ability to analyse and apply knowledge of group dynamics, including giving and receiving feedback.

7. Demonstrate capacity to identify and discuss the ethical complexities in course content areas.

8. Develop skills and knowledge for critical application of theory to practice.

9. Demonstrate competence in information seeking skills and reviewing relevant literature.

10. Develop a familiarity with relevant policies, an understanding of how policy is developed and the role of policy in achieving social justice goals in the practice areas covered.

Content

The course objectives are achieved by examining two domains of social work practice:

1. Working with people with an addiction
2. Care and protection of children.

These practice areas are linked to relevant social work theories. Intervention methods of casework and community work are used as lenses through which the practice areas are explored. Research and critical thinking are key skills utilised and developed through the course. Group dynamics and styles are also examined.

Review of Progress

This course is a compulsory program requirement for students in the following program(s):

• Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) (12317)

In addition to meeting the University's overall requirements for academic progression, students enrolled in these program(s) must satisfactorily complete this course in order to progress in their program.

Requisite

To enrol in this course students must have successfully completed SWRK1002 and be active in the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) program.

Assumed knowledge

SOCA1010, SOCA1020, PSYC1010, PSYC1020 and SWRK1001 and SWRK1002. Concurrent completion of SWRK2003 Exceptions may apply for part-time students.

Assessment items

Presentation: Group task

Written Assignment: Written assignment 1

Written Assignment: Written assignment 2

Written Assignment: Written assignment 3

Contact hours

Callaghan

Ourimbah