SOAD9060 Social Work Theories

This topic starts with describing and analysing the institutional and community contexts of social work practice and provides a comprehensive grounding for understanding the links between contexts of practice and theories for social work intervention. The topic introduces and analyses a range of theories to examine the many contexts in which social workers carry out their practice. Social Work Theories in Diverse Contexts will encourage students to build links from social work ethics and history to contemporary practice as they prepare to enter their first placement and for the many challenges in applying theory, knowledge and skills in the complex worlds of social work engagement with vulnerable individuals and communities. The topic provides practice exercises and case studies to assist students in applying ideas to practice.

This topic aims to develop students' understanding, knowledge and skills in the area of social work practice with individuals, families, groups, and within communities. The topic links introduction to health and human services policies with the activities of human service organisations to present current social work theories and perspectives in a systematic way. It uses an integrated and flexible framework to form links across the research-informed knowledge base with context and theory.

1. Develop and articulate a comprehensive framework for understanding theories that inform professional social work practice
2. Select appropriate theoretical knowledge to support future practice skills which aids effective involvement within various client systems, i.e. individuals, families, small groups and communities
3. Utilise theoretical frameworks for reflection and analysis to form a beginning understanding about one’s own professional practice