James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

WS5517 - Foundations for Social Work Practice

Subject Description

This subject introduces students to the foundations, skills, processes and values and ethics ethical concerns, relevant to professional social work practice. It emphasizes how of social justice underpins Australian social work and explores concepts and power and oppression in Australian society. Learning will include working respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the context of professional practice. During the subject students will explore their own values and ethics; consider ethics, justice, and the law for unravelling ethical dilemmas; review skills and frameworks that can be used when interacting with people in the context of social work practice; and explore social work specific career preferences and employability skills. Students will be introduced to case management principles. Students will be required to demonstrate empathic, respectful, interpersonal skills in one-on-one interactions and in designated learning groups as well as identify, reflect upon and critique their use of those skills in relation to their own developing practice framework.

Learning Outcomes

• critically appraise the history and context of social work practice in Australia with a focus on its impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• evaluate and apply the skills, values and ethics relevant to social work practice and employability in the human services industry
• formulate and demonstrate a high level of self-insight into career motivators, goals, development needs and accountability for own learning and professional development
• demonstrate professional listening, rapport building and reflective communication skills
• critique and apply core theoretical frameworks to engage with and enable individuals to achieve individual social and environmental equity and justice
• critically reflect on and apply core social work processes, knowledge, values and skills

Subject Assessment

• Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Essay (including multi-draft) 1 - (40%) - Individual
• Oral > Interview - (40%) - 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.

Special Assessment Requirements

On campus workshop attendance is a requirement of this subject.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  WS3516 WS5516

Availabilities