Critical Social Work Theories

Unit code: ASW2104 | Study 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)
Overview
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Overview

In this unit, students build on knowledge of social work theories acquired in ASW2202 Social Work Theories by developing an understanding of critical social work theories and perspectives and how these might be applied to contemporary practice.

First, this unit assists students to develop an historical understanding of these theories and perspectives and their philosophical underpinnings. Second, students will examine contemporary critical social work approaches such as anti-oppressive and anti-racist practices and apply these to practice scenarios. Third, throughout this unit, students will build on their capacity for reflection by engaging with critical self-reflection as a foundational component of a developing practice framework.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Locate critical social work theories, perspectives and approaches in an historical context;
  2. Investigate the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of the key contemporary critical social work perspectives;
  3. Understand key critical social work approaches and how they are applied in contemporary practice; and
  4. Demonstrate engagement with critical self-reflection as a foundational component of contemporary practice.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Review
|
Grade: 25%
Review of Readings (800 words)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 35%
Analysis of oppression - Media Inventory and Critical Reflection (1,200 words)
Assessment type: Case Study
|
Grade: 30%
Application of Critical Social Work Perspective to Practice (1000 words)
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 10%
Critically Reflective Discussion (400 words)

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 required text for this subject. Readings and other resources will be made available to the students by the convenor throughout the Unit.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Social Work
ABSW | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4 years

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.

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