Handbook : Unit informationEdith Cowan University

School: Arts and Humanities

This unit information may be updated and amended immediately prior to semester. To ensure you have the correct outline, please check it again at the beginning of semester.

• Unit Title

  Social Work Theory and Practice 2: A Focus on Theories

• Unit Code

  SWK3121

• Year

  2016

• Enrolment Period

  1

• Version

  2

• Credit Points

  15

• Full Year Unit

  N

• Mode of Delivery

  On Campus
  

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Description

The unit introduces students to the role and function of theoretical thinking in social work practice with particular emphasis on the utility of social work theories in facilitating appropriate and effective practice in regional, rural and remote areas. Specific theories of social work practice are identified and studied on the basis of their historical and contemporary contribution to the social work profession. Students develop skills in analysing, critiquing and practising predominantly social work theories of practice.

Non Standard Timetable Requirements

This unit is delivered in 5-day Block format on the Bunbury Campus. Students undertaking this unit must attend 5-day Block classes on the Bunbury campus.

Prerequisite Rule

Students must pass 1 unit from SWK3111

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Critique and analyse social work theories.
2. Demonstrate reflective practice.
3. Develop an awareness of the impact of personal factors in the helping relationship.
4. Develop and design an intervention strategy drawing on relevant values, theories and skills.
5. Discuss the relationship between values, theories and practice.
6. Examine cross cultural, rural and other differences in practice settings.

Unit Content

1. A critical introduction to the nature and value of theories and models of practice.
2. Applying theories in practice while remaining sensitive to the clients right to self determination.
3. Integrating values, theories and practice.
4. Interpersonal and interactive skills as the medium through which theories and ethical behaviours are enacted.
5. Personal factors that can affect practice and what can be done to minimise harmful effects.
6. Social work theories and their application to cases.

Additional Learning Experience Information

Lectures, workshops based tutorials, DVD case studies of interventions and student presentations and/or skills demonstration.

Assessment

GS1 GRADING SCHEMA 1 Used for standard coursework units

Students please note: The marks and grades received by students on assessments may be subject to further moderation. All marks and grades are to be considered provisional until endorsed by the relevant Board of Examiners.

Text References

• ^ Howe, D. (2009). A Brief Introduction to Social Work Theory. Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire: Palgrave Macmillan.
• Adams, R., Dominelli, L. & Payne, M. (Eds.). (2002) Social work: Themes, issues and critical debates. (2nd ed.). London: Macmillan.
• Fook, J. (1993). Radical casework: A theory of practice. St Leonards: Allen and Unwin.
• Howe, D. (1992). An introduction to social work theory: Making sense in practice. Aldershot: Arena.
• Ife, J. & Tesoriero, F. (2006). Community development: Community based alternatives in an age of globalisation. (3rd ed.). Frenchs Forest: Person Education Australia.
• Munro, E. (1998). Understanding social work: An empirical approach. London: The Althlone Press.
• Thompson, N. (1995). Theory and practice in health and social welfare. Buckingham: Open University Press.
• Thompson, N. (2001). Anti-discriminatory practice. (3rd ed.). Basingstoke: Macmillan.
• Turner, F.J. (Ed.). (1996). Social work treatment: Interlocking theoretical approaches. (4th ed.). New York: The Free Press.

^ Mandatory reference

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