This course is a general introduction to the history of social work, the issues social workers encounter, the systems in which social workers work, the theories and practices social workers utilize, as well as the services they provide across the varying field of practice.
Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to demonstrate the following knowledge or skills:
- Identify and critically analyze social problems
- Identify key historical events in social work and social justice in the United States
- Discuss the role social policy plays in lives
- Identify key social work values, knowledge, principles, and skills within an ethical framework as defined in the NASW Code of Ethics.
- Define the roles and functions of social work practice.
- Identify the multiple methods used by social workers.
- Demonstrate understanding of the numerous fields in which social workers practice.
- Define the dimensions of diversity and oppression
- Describe social justice issues related to the needs and hurdles of a particular concern population.
- Demonstrate understanding of factors related to populations at risk.
- Identify empowering practices and ways of working collaboratively as social workers.
Institutional Outcomes
IO1 Communication: Students will be able to communicate clearly and effectively.
Course Content Outline
- What is social work?
- Historical background of social work and social justice in the United States
- Social worker professional identity and Practice
- Ethical practices
- Social problems
- Diversity in practice
- Human rights and justice
Department Guidelines
PO4 should be assessed: Students will be able to recognize or articulate personal/interpersonal aspects of, or connections between, diverse cultural, social, or political contexts.
PO5 should be assessed: Students will be able to solve problems by gathering, interpreting, combining and/or applying information from multiple sources.