Social Work 678

SOWK 678: Advanced Standing Bridge I

Prerequisite: A Bachelor of Social Work degree from CSWE accredited institution, or expected graduation and admission to the Advanced Standing program

Credit Hours: (3)

SOWK 678 is the first course in a two course sequence that students with a Bachelor in Social Work Degree admitted for Advanced Standing take to prepare for the (second) concentration year. It will cover the areas of Human Behavior in the Social Environment and Practice with Individuals and Families.

Detailed Description of Content of the Course

Human Behavior in the Social Environment and Practice I

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The teaching and learning context for this course may include didactic instruction, large and small group discussions, role plays, student presentations, guest speakers, and other methods as appropriate.

Goals and Objectives of this Course

Upon completion of this course students will be able to:

i. Evaluate the relationships between theory and practice among all levels of social work practice (micro, mezzo and macro);

ii. Critically analyze human behavior and bio-psycho-social development from several theoretical perspectives including empowerment, ecological/systems, and social construction;

iii. Apply various analytical frameworks to critically understand theories of human behavior and practice knowledge as a basis for the Community-Based Family Practice (CBFP) concentration;

iv. Assess ethics, values, and cultural issues as they relate to all levels of social work theory and practice;

v. Develop an appreciation of diversity in social work practice and awareness of their own biases and assumptions in order to understand their sense of “other”; Develop an increased level of cultural sensitivity

vi. Exhibit knowledge of the influences of race, gender, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, and socio-economic factors on individual and family systems and the dynamic interaction between individuals and social systems, and an awareness of the impact of racism, sexism, social stratification, and other forms of oppression on society;

vii. Exhibit knowledge of the stages of human development across the lifespan (physical, psychological, moral and cognitive); and

viii. Exhibit knowledge of basic interviewing techniques, the ability to document and assess, to development treatment plans, and guide termination of services.

Assessment Measures

May include written examinations, oral presentations and a biopsychosocial assessment

Review and Approval

Approved:  May, 2010