Undergraduate - UnitSWK3400 - Critical social work 1: individuals and families (context and practice)

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered, or view unit timetables.

Synopsis

This unit covers child, adolescent and adult development with an emphasis on the development of resilience across the life course. A particular focus is on relevant contextual factors at individual, family, community and societal levels that impede or enhance development. The unit includes a social work practice theory section that provides an orientation to the theory of direct social work practice with individuals and families focusing on one to one work with individuals and on working with family groups. The unit has a skills component that includes assessment, engagement and the development of intervention strategies through the use of role plays, case studies.

Outcomes

At the completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Explain the specific developmental needs that arise in childhood, adolescence and adulthood
2. Outline the biopsychosocial model of child, adolescent and adult development in relation to relevant contextual factors
3. Analyse the values and assumptions underpinning various theoretical approaches to working with individuals and families
4. Summarize the key evidence in relation to the effectiveness of different approaches to social work practice (with individuals and families)
5. Demonstrate the basic elements of the social work process including assessment, the worker/client relationship.
6. Recognise and articulate practice implications for working with individuals, children and families from different cultural groups
7. Demonstrate basic skills in engaging with assessment of and intervention with clients
8. Demonstrate the ability to show self-awareness and critically reflective on your own social work practice

Assessment

Essay (1500 words 20%), a case study analysis (3,000 words 30%) and completion of role play(2000w) (25%) assessment activity with a critical reflection of their role play(2000 words and 25%).

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Uschi Bay

Contact hours

The unit runs for 12 weeks. Students are expected to undertake 312 hours per semester study. Students are expected to use their study time to attend on-campus lectures and workshops to undertake the weekly unit tasks as set out in the Unit Outline and in the off-campus Unit Guide, which include set readings; and, to complete three assignment tasks: an essay (1500 words), a case study analysis (2,500 words) and completion of role play assessment activity with a critical reflection of their role play.

Off-campus attendance requirements

Mandatory attendance is required by off-campus students for a 3 days workshop which is held at the Caulfield campus in the first week of May.

Prohibitions

SWK3240