In this module students will be introduced to the dialogue between theory, current context, values and practice models, and they will also learn about the assessment process in social work. A number of theories, approaches and methods will be introduced to the students, including systemic, psychodynamic, person-centred, task-centred, cognitive behavioural, postmodern, constructionist, strengths-based, solution focused and narrative approaches and crisis intervention models.
Students will be encouraged to consider and evaluate the relevance and effectiveness of the theoretical approaches in practice, apply evidence from national and international research, and discuss service user perspectives. They will consider the theories and approaches in relation to principles of partnership, empowerment and anti-oppressive practice
Total contact hours: 22
Private study hours: 128
Total study hours: 150
BA (Hons) Social Work – compulsory module
Main assessment methods
Coursework – essay (2000 words) - 60%*
Coursework – presentation (20 minutes) – 40%*
* These components are 'Pass compulsory' – students must pass BOTH the individual assessments in order to pass the module overall.
Reassessment methods
Like-for-like
Beckett, C. and Horner, N. (2016) Essential Theory for Social Work Practice. London: Sage
Lishmand, J. Yuill, C. Brannan, J. and Gibson, A. (2018) Social Work: An Introduction (2nd Edn). London: Sage.
Musson, P. (2017) Making Sense of Theory and It's Application to Social Work. St Albans: Critical Publishing
Oko, J. (2011) Understanding and Using Theory in Social Work (2nd Edition). Exeter. Learning Matters.
Payne, M. (2015) Modern Social Work Theory (4th Edn) Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
Teater, B. (2014) An Introduction to Applying Social Work Theories and Methods (2nd Edn). Berkshire: OU Press
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Demonstrate an initial understanding of theories and models for social work intervention
8.2 Illustrate how historical and cultural contexts impact on the construction of social work theories and methods
8.3 Demonstrate the application of theory to practice, and identify models focusing on work with individuals and families in a range of practice settings
8.4 Demonstrate an understanding of the application of research, theory and knowledge from sociology, social policy, psychology, health and human growth and development
8.5 Understand the role of reflective practice and demonstrate basic skills of reflection
8.6 Explain and illustrate how issues of power and anti-oppressive practice are reflected in particular social work theories and methods
8.7 Demonstrate an understanding of the purpose and contexts for the involvement of people who use services and carers in developing social work services, social theory and social work training
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1 Demonstrate basic skills with regard to gathering, organising, evaluating and synthesising information in a clear and coherent manner
9.2 Reflect on the application of theory to practice
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