HCS300 Social Work Theory and Practice 3 - Mezzo Level Practice (8)

This subject uses an issues-based approach to methods of intervention at the mezzo-level of practice. It develops students' intervention and evaluation skills in working with groups and communities and in organisational practice contexts. The subject provides a foundational understanding of group and community work, as well as work within and between organisations and interdisciplinary teams and meetings as a form of group process.

Availability

* Offering has a residential school. Please view following information for further details.

Session 1 (30)
On Campus
Dubbo Campus
Port Macquarie Campus
Wagga Wagga Campus
Online *
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: HCS300. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Humanities and Social Sciences

Enrolment Restrictions

Students must have successfully completed HCS200 and HCS202

Prerequisites

HCS200 and HCS202

Subject Relationships

HCS509 Paired Subject
HCS202 Prerequisite subject
HCS304 Incompatible subject
HCS200 Prerequisite subject

Incompatible Subjects

HCS304

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of principles and knowledge related to group work, organisational practice, and community work;
  • be able to apply a range of theories and skills for mezzo-practice within groups, communities and organisations;
  • be able to critically reflect on their own mezzo-level practice and professional identity by identifying strengths and areas for further development;
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of approaches to leadership in groups, communities and organisations, and an ability to critically reflect on their own leadership;
  • be able to participate in face-to-face learning activities as per accreditation requirements; and
  • be able to critically reflect on the complexity of Indigenous Australian knowledges and to work reflexively with communities commensurate with the aspirations of that community.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Characteristic features of groups, communities and organisations
  • Principles, theory and skills related to organisational practice and working alongside groups and communities, including Indigenous Australians
  • Key aspects relating to community-based practice, including community capacity building, social capital and community resilience
  • Characteristic features of group, community and organisational structures, internal and external relationships and how power impacts on processes and dynamics within these contexts
  • Approaches to leadership in groups, communities and organisations underpinned by social work values and ethics
  • Strategies for managing conflict and improving inter-sectorial relationships with other services and disciplines

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of HCS300 in Session 1 2020. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Online test
10
2
Reflective essay
40
3
Short essays: social work in organisations
50
4
Attendance record
0

Residential School

This subject contains a 5 day Compulsory Residential School.

The residential school will involve the students in interactive experiential learning activities, providing a safe environment in which to practice and develop their skills. It will provide specific lectures and opportunities for discussion and clarification of key concepts and processes. There will be individual and group activities.

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2021. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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