SOCWK Course Descriptions

Social Work (Social Development Studies) (2009-2010)

Presentation of the value, knowledge, and skill base, principles and purposes of the profession, and an examination of methods of practice. Traditional and innovative social work settings are discussed. Historic development of Social Work and its influence on contemporary practice are reviewed.

A presentation of some of the theoretical constructs necessary for the understanding of the individual in the casework relationship, as well as an introduction to some appropriate casework interventions. Emphasis in the course will be theoretical.

Presentation of some of the theoretical constructs necessary for an understanding of social group work as well as an introduction to methodology and interventions.

An examination of social work practice as it relates to functional and geographical communities. The course will explore the theoretical foundations of organization practice as well as a variety of models.

An introduction to the concepts and practices in palliative care. Topics include historical and philosophical background, the hospice movement, current approaches in palliative care, the multi-discipline team, stress factors, suicide and cross-cultural beliefs of death, illness and loss as they affect the terminally ill and their families.

This course will introduce students to the concept of social welfare as it has evolved in the post-industrial era. It will examine various social, economic and political factors that have shaped Canadian social welfare policy and it will consider present-day factors that are transforming that policy.

This course explores culture, its components, characteristics and processes, theories, issues, and the history of diversity in Canadian social systems. It also examines the implications of diversity for social work practice and fosters culturally competent practice with micro and macro social systems.

Considers some of the intellectual components of the social work skills necessary for working with individuals. Social work theories of the individual will be examined in order for the student to learn some clinical applications relevant to the casework relationship.

Presentation of some of the theoretical constructs necessary for an understanding of the family in the social work relationship as well as an introduction to methodology and interventions.

An exploration of community organization activities in the context of international processes of colonization and globalization.

Social welfare from the 18th century to the present. The effects of religious, political, economic, and cultural factors on social welfare development and the continuing influence of inherent attitudes, philosophies and values on this complex institution. Focus on the Canadian social welfare system.

The objectives of this course are to provide an understanding of the dimensions and causes of child maltreatment, to develop skills identifying cases of this social problem and to explore current methods of management and treatment of persons involved in child maltreatment situations.

This course explores the nature and extent of developmental disability in Canada. It reviews traditional approaches to support services and social work practice with people with disabilities and their families, and it examines how these have changed in response to social change movements and milestones. Students consider social work interventions with individuals and families from a strengths-based perspective emphasizing advocacy, empowerment, and social support.

An application of the principles and models of medical, psychogenic, and sociogenic adjustment to an understanding of family violence. The treatment of victims of family violence, the prevention of such violence, and social policies affecting family welfare are considered.

Analysis of social work in the medical setting, concentrating on identification and treatment of emotional, family, and community aspects of illness. Emphasis is on the concrete application of professional social work to health care while comparing medical and social work values and concepts of illness.

An examination of social work theory and practice concerning the needs of the elderly. Social work strategies of intervention with the healthy and frail aged will be considered from the individual, group, family, community, and bureaucratic perspectives.

This course will deal with selected topics in Social Work. Subjects will be dependent upon the research and/or instructional interests of faculty.

Social Work concepts and practices introduced in preceding family violence courses will be considered in depth. Over the course of two terms, a seminar format will be used to explore etiological and intervention issues pertaining to the various forms of family violence.

A continuation of SOCWK 390A. Social Work concepts and practices introduced in preceding family violence courses will be considered in depth. A seminar format will be used to explore etiological and intervention issues pertaining to the various forms of family violence.

An independent in-depth study of a selected area of concern to the student within the discipline of Social Work. Available to individuals or small groups of third- or fourth-year Social Development Studies students and arranged with one of the faculty members from the program.

An independent in-depth study of a selected area of concern to the student within the discipline of Social Work. Available to individuals or small groups of third- or fourth-year Social Development Studies students and arranged with one of the faculty members from the program.

Honours seminars may include weekly readings, individual and/or group projects, class presentations and discussions, research proposals, essay/literature reviews, assignments, midterms, and final exams. Consult departmental listings for topics and prerequisites for the current year.

An independent, in-depth study, based on empirical research and/or extensive reading in social work under the direction of individual instructors in Social Work. Available to individuals or small groups of fourth-year Social Development Studies Majors and arranged with one of the faculty members from the plan. The project must be approved by the academic supervisor of the course prior to registration.