SOAD1006 Social Planning Theory

2020

4.5

1 x 1-hour lecture weekly
1 x 1-hour tutorial weekly

SOAD1003 has been successfully completed

Bachelor of Social Work

Assignment(s), project, tutorial participation, tutorial presentation

This topic provides students with an overview of the historical development of social planning as field of study and practice, emerging as a response to adverse living conditions, poor health and social inequality. The topic will give students a deeper understanding of the social and cultural issues central to contemporary planning, in both developed and developing countries. The focus is on the notion of social justice and equality in diverse and dynamic times. Theories of planning, communities, and social capital will be illustrated with national and international case studies. The topic is highly interactive, as students develop a project which builds on their learning throughout the semester.

The topic will give an understanding of the social determinants of health and the role that social planning plays in ideally preventing or at least ameliorating potential negative outcomes for groups, particularly those already at risk of marginalisation or disadvantage, in society. It will introduce students to different theories of communities and the theories and methods used in social planning. There will be a focus on the broad context of social planning within the political, social and organisational environment.

National and international case studies will be widely used to illustrate concepts and demonstrate contemporary challenges and opportunities for social planners.

On successful completion of this topic, it is expected that students will demonstrate an understanding of:

• the historical development of social planning and the discipline's relationship with and potential to influence social determinants of health, social disadvantage and social justice
• the political, social, cultural and organisational context in which social planning operates
• the contribution other disciplines can make to planning and vice versa
• the different theories and models of social planning
• communities and social capital
• working independently and as part of a team, managing time, planning work to a schedule, and communicating confidently and in an informed and respectful manner with peers and colleagues