Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

Social welfare workers require a knowledge of legal issues and of the legal system, human rights frameworks and professional codes of ethics in order to ensure social justice for service users (citizens, residents and asylum seekers). This unit provides an overview of professional skills in working within the legal system, advocacy skills, and the processes of campaigning for the extension of human rights. Students will learn how to use relevant legislation and locate resource systems for direct practice. It also examines the ways in which legal obligations and powers inform professional judgement.

Objectives

Understand the legal system and legal instruments to ensure social justice; demonstrate a good understanding of national & international human rights ; demonstrate an appreciation of practitioners' legal & ethical obligations towards service users (citizens, residents, asylum seekers); develop skills in collaborating with legal professionals; develop advocacy skills and knowledge of resources available for extending human rights and social justice.

Assessment

Essay (2500 words): 60%
Exam (2 hours): 40%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Social and community welfare

Prerequisites

SCW1302

Co-requisites

SCW2311