Theoretical Approaches to Social Work Practice PG (12016.1)

This unit has an in-person on-campus intensive component. This unit focuses on developing a framework of practice for working directly with individuals, groups and families. Students will explore the various approaches, models and theories of social work practice focusing on systems theory, strengths-based approaches, crisis theory, anti-oppressive approaches, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution focused and group and family-based models. Further students will develop skills in working with service users and carers in an experiential learning environment through engagement with case scenarios and simulated practice settings.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Analyse, synthesise and communicate social work theories, approaches and models;
2. Critically apply knowledge of theories, skills and processes in social work practice scenarios; and
3. Demonstrate ability to work with service users, carers, groups, communities and stakeholders and colleagues irrespective of age, gender, disability, socio-economic background, ethnicity, or sexuality.

Graduate attributes

1. UC graduates are professional - communicate effectively
1. UC graduates are professional - display initiative and drive, and use their organisation skills to plan and manage their workload
1. UC graduates are professional - employ up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills
1. UC graduates are professional - take pride in their professional and personal integrity
1. UC graduates are professional - use creativity, critical thinking, analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems
2. UC graduates are global citizens - behave ethically and sustainably in their professional and personal lives
2. UC graduates are global citizens - communicate effectively in diverse cultural and social settings
2. UC graduates are global citizens - make creative use of technology in their learning and professional lives
2. UC graduates are global citizens - understand issues in their profession from the perspective of other cultures
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - adapt to complexity, ambiguity and change by being flexible and keen to engage with new ideas
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - evaluate and adopt new technology
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - reflect on their own practice, updating and adapting their knowledge and skills for continual professional and academic development
4. UC graduates are able to demonstrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing - communicate and engage with Indigenous Australians in ethical and culturally respectful ways

Prerequisites

12012 Social Work in Global, Regional and Local Contexts PG AND
12013 Working with Diverse Communities PG AND
12014 Psychosocial Health across the Lifecycle PG AND
12015 Ethical and Legal Contexts of Social Work Practice PG

Corequisites

None.

Incompatible units

None.

Equivalent units

None.

Assumed knowledge

None.