James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

WS2513:03

Community Work *

Townsville, Cairns, Mackay, External HECS Band 1

13 hours lectures, 24 hours tutorials. Semester 2.

Staff: Mr P Jones (Townsville and Mackay campus); Ms R Lynn (Cairns campus).

This subject introduces students to a range of issues relating to the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for successful and progressive community work practice. Included in this exploration will be: a consideration of the concept of community; critical perspectives on the nature and meaning of community practice; values and ideologies; roles and processes in community work; current trends in community work theory and the critiques and contradictions of theory and practice.

Learning Objectives:

  1. develop a critical understanding of the concept of community; the nature of community work and community development and the relevance of these to contemporary societies and social welfare practice;
  2. become familiar with a number of models and theories of community work practice and the ideological and value positions associated with them;
  3. develop an awareness of the knowledge and skills necessary for effective, progressive community work practice;
  4. develop a critical appreciation of strategies and roles for developing sustainable communities.

Assessment by written assignments (50%); class presentations and/or in-class tests (50%).


* Offered each year on campus, offered in odd-numbered years by External mode