SWK2030 - Introduction to social work B: Policy and practice issues

Leader: Ms Kerry Brydon

Offered

Singapore Term 4 2007 (Flexible)

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to the context of social work practice. This means that there will be analysis of the impact of globalisation on practice and there will be examination on the links between policy and practice. There will also be discussion of key practice issues and the need to maintain emphasis on professional development.
Some of the topics covered will include globalisation, development of policy, practice issues such as poverty, children's issues and the impact of urban development on practice and policy. Finally there will be examination of professional development with emphasis on supervision and the prevention of professional burnout.

Objectives

Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. explain how global events influence social work practice;
2. identify, analyse and articulate the nature of social policy;
3. identify and articulate the factors that determine social policy including international factors;
4. identify and examine the links between social policy and social work practice with reference to how organisational structure and culture influences practice;
5. discuss the key issues in practice and professional development and be able to articulate these; and
6. present their findings in a range of forms including oral, written and electronic.

Assessment

Essay (in 2 parts, 2500 words): 50%
Essay (2000 words): 30%
Class presentation: 20%