SCW1302 - Governing inequality: Foundations of social welfare provision

Leader(s): Olga Bursian

Offered

Gippsland Second semester 2009 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2009 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to social and community welfare as a professional field located within governmental practice and changing community attutudes. The development, dispersal and decline of the Welfare State throughout western and 'westernised' countries is critically explored. Students also develop an understanding of the historical contribution of the broad range of social and human sciences in the formulation of strategies and techniques for addressing disadvantage and effecting social change.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand the historical and political context of the Welfare State and its relationship to the rise of social and community welfare as a professional field.

2. Discern the role of government policy in the implementation of social and community welfare services and programs.

3. Comprehend and engage with key debates and critiques of the social and community welfare system.

4. Demonstrate the development of skills in independent and self-directed learning.

Assessment

Introductory assignment (500 words): 10%
Historical analysis (2000 words): 45%
Exam (2 hours): 45%

Contact hours

3 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 2 hour seminar) per week