Social Work and Trauma Informed Care

Unit code:ASW3097Study level:Undergraduate

Credit points

12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)

Location

Footscray Park

Prerequisites

96 credit points of first year core ABSW units.
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)

Overview

In all practice contexts, social workers use knowledge about trauma and its effects on human development, wellbeing and agency with individuals, groups and communities. This unit acquaints students with this knowledge and as such students are encouraged to develop foundations for trauma informed practice. Current inter-professional practice frameworks and guidelines will be utilised to inform students developing abilities to recognise the prevalence of trauma, identify the multidimensional effects of trauma, and be able to apply knowledge and skills to respond with sensitivity and efficacy. Implications for use of self in practice will also be explored by encouraging students to reflect on the own relevant life experiences within a professional practice context.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

Apply knowledge of trauma to demonstrate its potential effect on human development, wellbeing and agency;
Demonstrate trauma informed approaches with individuals, families, groups and communities;
Apply a systems perspective to understanding the impact and experience of trauma for individuals, groups and communities; and
Reflect on social work use of self when responding to trauma.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test | Grade: 20%

Written Review (800 words)

Assessment type: Other | Grade: 50%

Practice scenario, including team consultation (15 mins) and individual written student statement of learning responding to set questions (1000 words)

Assessment type: Portfolio | Grade: 30%

Trauma-Informed Practice Portfolio (1500words)

To gain a pass in this unit students must attain a minimum overall grade of 50% and attempt and submit all assessment tasks. Each assessment task covers discrete areas of knowledge and skill required for the successful completion of the social work course.

Required reading

There is no one specific required test for this unit. Students will be able to access all readings and resources via VU Collaborate and the VU Library.