This unit of study introduces students to key dimensions of human service organisations. A range of theoretical models from different disciplinary perspectives are presented and critically examined from the viewpoints of key stakeholders including workers, service users, managers, funding bodies and policy makers. A focus on the organisational context of professional practice in the human services contributes to students' preparation for their future practice.

Unit details

Location:
Footscray Park
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
ASW1000

Contact us

Find a different unit

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Review and discuss professional practice in human service organisations;  
  2. Identify and discuss the dilemmas and tensions facing workers in human service organisations;  
  3. Explain frameworks for understanding the structure, culture and context of organisations; and  
  4. Articulate the links between organisational theory and practice.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Project Video Interview Project (500 words) 20%
Report Write a reflective report drawing on seminar learnings (equivalent to 500 words) 20%
Essay Short Essay drawing on content from the group presentation (800 words) 30%
Presentation Group Presentation (equivalent to 1,000 words per individual) 30%

Required reading

Relevant articles will also be made available to students via VU Collaborate.

Working With Human Service Organisations 2nd ed.
Gardner, F., (2016)
South Melbourne, Victoria, Oxford University Press

Where to next?

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.