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James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

For subject information from 2025 and onwards, please visit the new JCU Course and Subject Handbook website.

WS1008 - Social Policy and Social Work

Credit points:03
Year:2023
Student Contribution Band:Band 4
Prerequisites:NIL
Administered by:College of Arts, Society & Education

Subject Description

    Social policy impacts the context in which social workers practice, and in turn social workers develop, implement, and analyse social policy through their practice. This subject introduces students to the concept of social policy and its influence on the nature of our society and the lives of individual Australians. Students will examine the purpose and meaning of social policy, including historical foundations and future challenges. The impact of social policy on vulnerable and diverse populations will be analysed to develop their understanding of the key players and political institutions that influence the decision-making processes inherent in social policy formation and implementation. Relevant skills such as policy evaluation and analysis, advocacy, and social action will be introduced.

Learning Outcomes

  • explain the historical, economic and ideological influences on the development of Australian social policy
  • demonstrate a critical understanding of the role of key institutions, and stakeholders involved in the development and implementation of social policy
  • critically analyse social policy, its purpose and impact in decision making with vulnerable and diverse populations
  • demonstrate knowledge about the role of social workers in developing and implementing social policy

Subject Assessment

  • Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (30%) - Individual
  • Poster Presentation + Oral summary on a relevant social issue and the policy response including the role of government, the media, special interest groups, and communities - (70%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Availabilities

Townsville Bebegu Yumba, Study Period 2, External

Census date:Thursday, 24 Aug 2023
Study Period Dates:Monday, 24 Jul 2023 to Friday, 17 Nov 2023
Coordinator(s):
Assoc. Professor Abraham Francis
Lecturer(s):
DR Michael Dee
Workload expectations:The student workload for this 3 credit point subject is approximately 130 hours.
  • 10 Hours - Online activity
  • 10 Hours - Online Workshops
Method of delivery:WWW - LearnJCU