SWRK 2010 - Introduction to Social Work

3 sem hrs cr

This course examines the history, philosophy, professional mission, career patterns, practice, methods and present organization of the social work profession.

Formerly/Same As (Formerly SOC 2570)

Transfer (UT) or Non-Transfer Course (UN): UT

Students should…

• gain an understanding of the social work profession.
• identify how social work evolved as a profession.
• gain greater insight into the social work field and the social systems.
• gain an understanding of the social service delivery system.
• gain knowledge about social work’s values and ethics.
• examine the concept of social justice.
• gain awareness of the many differences in diversity among clients within the social work profession.
• understand generalist social work, including the processes for social work practice, the roles and functions of social work, and social policy.
• examine contemporary issues in fields of practice.

OBJECTIVES

At the end of this course, students will be able to…

• identify the social work profession: Who are social workers? What do social workers do? What is the purpose of their work?
• utilize critical thinking skills in identifying various dimensions of social work and its relationship to social welfare.
• demonstrate fundamental social work concepts.
• identify historical developments of social history, including pioneers in the field, social movements, and educational developments in social work.
• identify various social service settings, funding, staffing, and service-delivery issues.
• identify principles of ethics of the field in regards to societal ethics.
• discuss change-agent strategies that enhance the concept of social justice.
• identify human rights in society and the different “isms” that impact individuals.
• identify the importance of working with clients with diverse populations, including minority groups, race/ethnic diversity, differences in religion, and sexual diversity.
• examine the functions and roles of social work: consultancy, resource management, and education.
• determine social policy as a product and a process and discuss how social policy impacts the social work profession.
• examine contemporary issues within the social work profession: poverty, homelessness, criminal justice, unemployment, disabilities, mental health, and addiction.
• examine contemporary issues within the healthcare systems, working with family and youth, and among adult and aging services.