Contemporary Issues and Debates in Social Work
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| SOCW4008 | Social Work | 4 | 20 | Spring UK |
- Code
- SOCW4008
- School
- Social Work
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
This module examines contemporary debates and issues in social work by focusing on the nature of knowledge in social work and some of the main social theories which conceptualise social work and its relationship to the state, society and the individual. Students will be supported to explore how different theoretical approaches provide different ways of thinking about the nature of social work in advanced modern societies and their implications for social work practice. The debates covered will vary year-on-year to reflect changes in the social and political landscape, but key issues are likely to include how to protect children and vulnerable adults; personalisation and agency adult care; the role of research in social work and the meaning of 'evidence-based practice' and the impacts of power and inequality.
Target Students
Only available for MA Social Science Research (Social Work pathway) students
Classes
This module is taught through a combination of lectures and seminars.
Assessment
- 100% Coursework: 4,000 words.
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
The module enables students to explore some of the key debates in current social work theory and practice. It will afford opportunities to examinedifferent theoretical perspectives which seek to explain and define what social work is.Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students should be able to demonstrate the following:
Knowledge and Understanding
- An understanding of the role of social work in society and people’s lives, including how research informs relevant policy and practice.
- An understanding of the strengths and limitations of these different theoretical frameworks.
- Understand how structural and individual issues impinge on and influence social work roles, functions and encounters.
Intellectual Skills
- The ability to understand and apply different theoretical perspectives to social work.
- The capacity to analyse and evaluate research evidence regarding the impact of social work interventions.
Transferable Skills
- Independent study skills.
- Bibliographic skills.
- Critical reading and writing skills.