Youth Work Practice

    Unit code: AEB1800 | Study level: Undergraduate
    12
    (Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
    Footscray Park
    Online Real Time
    Werribee
    N/A
    Overview
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    Overview

    This unit aims to provide a structural foundation for understanding the development and the dynamics of youth work. It will explore the evolution of youth work within a sociological and cultural framework that discusses the links between health, agency and empowerment, as well as a diverse range of youth work models that support and inform reflexive practitioners. Topics to be covered include the following: concepts of youth: historic and global development of the role of adolescence and the development of specific youth work practices; social, cultural and biological constructs of adolescence; social determinants of health in relation to resilience, risk and protective factors; constructs of marginalisation and disadvantage; identity, agency and empowerment; case studies of significant people who are agents of social change; models of youth work practice – treatment, reform, advocacy; settings and context of youth work.

    Learning Outcomes

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

    1. Discuss the role of youth work within the broader context and politics of social change, considering the evolution of youth work in a wide range of social and cultural contexts;
    2. Analyse specific scenarios or situations; and apply appropriate youth work models and approaches;
    3. Analyse the risk and protective factors within a range of settings and environments;
    4. Outline strategies to enhance the agency and empowerment of young people; and
    5. Communicate critical thinking orally and in writing to problem solve a range of issues related to youth work practice.
    6. Participate in an academic community of discourse through reflective and critical engagement in academic texts and understanding of principles of academic integrity.

    Assessment

    For Melbourne campuses

    Hurdle assessment task: Completion of five Academic Integrity Modules

    Assessment type: Other
    |
    Grade: 25%
    Reflection on evolution of Youth Work (700 words)
    Assessment type: Essay
    |
    Grade: 40%
    Youth Work values (1500 words)
    Assessment type: Other
    |
    Grade: 35%
    Community Map (Infographic)

    Required reading

    Students will be provided with a reading list via VU Collaborate.

    As part of a course

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

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