Course coordinator
Please email Debby if you wish to schedule an appointment: d.lynch@uq.edu.au
This course introduces students to the key elements of social work practice including values, ethics, foundational knowledge and skills, and how these link to processes of assessment and intervention. The course provides a contextual framework that includes an understanding of the social work profession in its historical and current socio-economic, political and organisational contexts.
The Master of Social Work (Q) program is accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). The AASW Accreditation Standards (2020) stipulate that accredited social work programs are required to include content that addresses the five core curriculum areas listed below. SWSP7111 contains content in all five curriculum areas.
Welcome to SWSP7111. This course introduces students to the key elements of social work: its purpose, foundational knowledge base, values, ethics, methods and professional issues. It demonstrates how these elements inform the processes and outcomes of social work assessment and intervention in a range of practice contexts, with a particular focus on critical reasoningᅠand engaging with cultural diversity. It provides a professionalᅠframework that includes an understanding of the social work profession in its historical and current socio-economic, political and organisational contexts. The course provides students with the opportunity to develop beginning analytical skills for practice;ᅠa critical understanding of different assessment and intervention models used in practice, and an awareness of the different intervention strategies used to achieve optimal client outcomes.
Acknowledgement:
The University of Queensland acknowledges the Traditional Owners and their custodianship of the lands upon which the University now stands. We pay our respects to their Ancestors and their descendants, who continue their cultural and spiritual connection to Country. We recognise their valuable contribution to Australian and global society.ᅠ
Students who enrol in this course need to demonstrate a commitment to the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) Code of Ethics (2020) and Practice Standards (2023). These two documents are key to understanding and practising social work in the Australian context.
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
SWSP3211, SWSP7022, SWSP3022
Please email Debby if you wish to schedule an appointment: d.lynch@uq.edu.au
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Globally, universities are investing in digital infrastructure such as digital platforms and technologies to improve the access and flexibility of programs, and to enhance more personalised, student-centred learning. Our course is taking advantage of these digital innovations! This introductory course adopts a blended teaching and learning approach to support students to acquire knowledge and skills for social work practice. In combination with the weekly lecture (1 hour) and weekly tutorials (2 hours), there are a series of online modules (1-7). The online modules are accessed in the course Learn UQ (Blackboard) and will be released in the week before the class so that students can engage with the content and learning activities ahead of the lectures and tutorials. The content and learning activities in the modules are integrated into the weekly classes so please ensure that you have engaged with the online modules beforehand! This will enable you to participate fully and meaningfully in class discussions and learning activities. Please see how the 7 online modules align with the teaching weeks below:
Week 1: Module 1: Introduction to Social Work
Week 2 & Week 3: Module 2: Ethics and Values in Social Work
Week 4: Module 3: Social Work in the Field
Week 6: Module 4: The Knowledge Base of Social Work
Week 7: Module 5: Fields of Practice and the Organisation
Weeks 8, 9, 10 & 11: Module 6: Assessment in Social Work
Week 12: Module 7: Intervention in Social Work
Over the semester, there will be opportunities to meet as a group with Course Coordinator, Debby informally so that we can build a dynamic and supportive learning community. Dates and times to be announced.ᅠᅠᅠ
The overall aim of this course is to introduce students to the key elements of social work. These elements include: social work's purpose, knowledge bases, values, ethics and methods.
An associated aim is to demonstrate how these elements inform social work assessment and intervention in a range of practice and organisational contexts, with a primary focus on children and families.
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Apply critical understandings to describe and explain the domain of social work; its historical development; and the contemporary socio-political and cultural contexts which inform it.
LO2.
Articulate and evaluate social work's purpose, methods (including working with groups), theory, values, ethics and standards and demonstrate how they link to practice.
LO3.
Critically evaluate and utilise the types and sources of knowledge that inform social work practice.
LO4.
Apply evidence-informed assessment, intervention, outcomes and evaluation processes to key elements of practice.
LO5.
Critically reflect on the application of culturally responsive practice with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
LO6.
Utilise knowledge and skills to respond effectively and sensitively to the social, economic, and cultural diversity inherent to groups and individuals.
LO7.
Conceptually integrate and apply understanding of the key elements of social work to the processes of assessment and intervention planning, with particular reference to children and families.
Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
---|---|---|---|
Examination |
In Class Examination: Ethics and values in social work
|
30% |
27/03/2025 12:00 pm
The exam will take place in class. |
Presentation, Role play/ Simulation |
Individual Student Presentation: What is social work?
|
30% |
10/04/2025 - 17/04/2025 |
Paper/ Report/ Annotation |
Video Analysis
|
40% 2,500 words |
26/05/2025 1:00 pm |
27/03/2025 12:00 pm
The exam will take place in class.
The exam will take place in class at 12:00pm until 1:50pm on Thursday 27 March 2025. The exam is 90 minutes in length (plus 10 minutes reading time). It is a closed book exam which will consist of short answer and multiple-choice questions. The exam is worth 30% and is based on content covered in Weeks 2 & 3 (Module 2: Ethics and Values in Social Work), your required readings from the prescribed textbook (Chapter 3 & 4), the AASW Code of Ethics (2020), AASW Practice Standards (2023) and practice scenarios which require understanding of ethical concepts, key ethical theories and ethical decision-making models which are covered in the course.
AI: This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI). Students are advised that the use of AI technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited in the exam and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Planning time | 10 minutes |
---|---|
Duration | 90 minutes |
Calculator options | No calculators permitted |
Open/closed book | Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted |
Materials | Bilingual Dictionary permitted |
Exam platform | Paper based |
Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
You may be able to defer this exam.
The University recognises that on occasion a medical condition or other exceptional circumstances may impair your ability to attend an examination at the scheduled date and time. Please see above for the guidelines on approving deferred examinations. If a deferred examination is approved, the deferred examination will be scheduled later in the semester.
Alternatively, students are eligible to apply for a one-off discretionary deferred exam if they haven’t previously applied for one. You would use the discretionary deferred if your reason for missing the examination does not fall within the guidelines.
10/04/2025 - 17/04/2025
Imagine that your organisation has asked you to present an information session about the role of social work within your organisation. This assessment task is an opportunity to practice explaining the role of social work in its specific context. Each students will develop and present a 5–6-minute oral presentation which will be scheduled in the Week 7 or Week 8 tutorials. The presentation will explain what social work is and its specific role within a chosen field and organisational context. Following the presentation, there will be a 3-minute Question and Answer (Q&A) session when the tutorial group (the audience) will be invited to ask questions about the presentation. This description is only a summary of the task. For full details, including the marking rubric, please refer to the course Learn UQ (Blackboard) site.
Use of AI: This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI technologies, successful completion of this assessment will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance. A failure to reference generative AI use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct. To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension which is independent of AI tools. For further information on students' use of AI, please see: https://web.library.uq.edu.au/study-and-learning-support/ai-student-hub/ai-your-learning
Submit information about your presentation electronically via Turnitin by 1pm the day before you present. This written component is not marked but will inform your Tutor which social work setting you have chosen and your selected audience group. Please refer to the course Learn UQ (Blackboard) site for specific information about this requirement.
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Applying for an extension
Extension requests are submitted online via my.UQ. Extension requests received in any other way will not be approved.
Information about applying for an extension can be found on my.UQ .
Extension guidelines
Outcome of application
Extension requests are generally processed within 2 working days. Students can see the outcome of their application by logging in to my.UQ.
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
26/05/2025 1:00 pm
This assessment aims to provide students with experience in completing a psychosocial assessment which is a core social work practice skill. You are required to provide a holistic assessment of the issues facing a service user featured in the video 'I'll call Australia Home'. This video will be viewed in class, and it is also available in the library for viewing (DU122.S75). The documentary follows two refugee families from Sudan and Burma who escape civil war and violence to resettle in Australia. Your assessment should focus on one member of either of the two families. You will need to imagine that you are practicing as a social worker within a relevant organisation to conduct your social work assessment. This could be a government agency, a non-government community centre, a private-for-profit organisation, or private practice.
This description is only a summary of the task. For full details, including the Psychosocial Report template for writing your report and the marking rubric, please refer to the course Learn UQ (Blackboard) site.
Use of AI
This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI technologies, successful completion of this assessment will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance. A failure to reference generative AI use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct. To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension which is independent of AI tools. For further information on students' use of AI, please see: https://web.library.uq.edu.au/study-and-learning-support/ai-student-hub/ai-your-learning
By following the guidance provided on the course Learn UQ (Blackboard) site, you will be able to effectively conduct a psychosocial assessment and demonstrate your understanding of the key factors involved. Good luck!
Please submit your assignment via Turnitin using the link on the course Learn UQ (Blackboard) site.
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Applying for an extension
Extension requests are submitted online via my.UQ. Extension requests received in any other way will not be approved.
Information about applying for an extension can be found on my.UQ .
Extension guidelines
Outcome of application
Extension requests are generally processed within 2 working days. Students can see the outcome of their application by logging in to my.UQ.
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
Grade | Cut off Percent | Description |
---|---|---|
1 (Low Fail) | 0.1 - 29.9 |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Fails to demonstrate most or all of the basic requirements of the course.ᅠ |
2 (Fail) | 30 - 46.9 |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Demonstrates clear deficiencies in understanding and applying fundamental concepts; communicates information or ideas in ways that are frequently incomplete or confusing and give little attention to the conventions of the discipline. |
3 (Marginal Fail) | 47 - 49.9 |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: Demonstrates superficial or partial or faulty understanding of the fundamental concepts of the field of study and limited ability to apply these concepts; presents undeveloped or inappropriate or unsupported arguments; communicates information or ideasᅠwith lack of clarity and inconsistent adherence to theᅠconventions of the discipline.ᅠᅠ |
4 (Pass) | 50 - 64.49 |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Demonstrates adequate understanding and application of the fundamental concepts of the field of study; develops routine arguments or decisions and provides acceptable justification; communicates information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline.ᅠ |
5 (Credit) | 64.5 - 74.49 |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Demonstrates substantial understanding of fundamental concepts of the field of study and ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; develops or adapts convincing arguments and provides coherent justification; communicates information and ideas clearly and fluently in terms of the conventions of the discipline.ᅠ |
6 (Distinction) | 74.5 - 84.49 |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: As for a grade of 5 and with frequent evidence of originality in defining and analysing issues or problems and in creating solutions; uses a level, style and means of communication appropriate to the discipline and the audience.ᅠ |
7 (High Distinction) | 84.5 - 100 |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: As for a grade of 6 and with consistent evidence of substantial originality and insight in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem solving approaches; critically evaluates problems, their solutions and implications. |
Students must submit all items of assessment in order to pass this course.
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
In the case of a student requiring a supplementary assessment for this course, the supplementary assessment will be determined to address those components of the course assessment where the student has yet to demonstrate achievement of the required learning objectives. The supplementary assessment will be graded against a marking rubric which will be made available with the release of the supplementary assessment item.
Use of AI
Please refer to each assessment item for guidance on the use of AI.ᅠ
Referencing style
Please use APA 7th referencing style for written assignments. The main library has an APA 7th Referencing Style Guide.ᅠᅠ
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
The following journals and websites are useful resources:
Australian Social Work
Asia Pacific Journal of Social Work and Development
British Journal of Social Work
Child and Family Social Work
Critical Social Policy
Ethics and Social Welfareᅠ
Journal of Social Work Practice
Australian Human Rights Commission http://www.humanrights.gov.au/about/index.html
International Federation of Social Workers http://www.ifsw.org
Australian Association of Social Workers http://www.aasw.asn.au
Social Care Institute for Excellence SCIEᅠ http://www.scie.org.uk
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
---|---|---|
Week 1 (24 Feb - 02 Mar) |
Lecture |
Week 1: Overview and Introduction to the course Welcome to SWSP7111 Introduction to Key Elements of Social Work. I'm looking forward to a great semester with you all! The first class will provide an overview of the course and introduce you to the blended teaching and learning approach. This session aligns with the introductory online module [Module 1: Introduction to Social Work]. We will cover the course structure, assessment tasks and learning resources. Please note: There are no tutorials in Week 1. |
Week 2 (03 Mar - 09 Mar) |
Lecture |
Week 2: Locating Resources! SWSP7111 Library Presentation By the end of today's session, you be equipped with the tools and strategies to efficiently locate the best resources for your course assignments! Learning outcomes: L03 |
Tutorial |
Week 2: Tutorial Welcome to your First Tutorial! In this session, we'll get to know each other and start building our learning community. We'll enter the world of social work by exploring what social work is, what social workers do, and how you have formed your ideas about the profession. This tutorial aligns with Module 1: Introduction to Social Work. |
|
Week 3 (10 Mar - 16 Mar) |
Lecture |
Week 3: Ethics and Values in Social Work As you step into the world of professional social work, you are committing to the values and ethics that define our profession. Today, we'll examine these core principles by exploring the AASW Code of Ethics (2020) and AASW Practice Standards (2023). We will also tackle some common ethical challenges social workers face, including how to navigate conflicts between personal and professional values. This class aligns with Module 2: Ethics and Values in Social Work. Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L05, L06 |
Tutorial |
Week 3: Tutorial Today, we'll continue to examine the core values, ethics, and standards of social work as outlined in the AASW Code of Ethics (2020). Through interactive learning activities, practice scenarios and group discussions [see Module 2: Ethics and Values in Social Work], you will gain a deeper understanding of these core principles and their practical application. Plus, this tutorial will help you prepare for your ethics exam in Week 5! Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L05, L06 |
|
Week 4 (17 Mar - 23 Mar) |
Lecture |
Week 4: Social Work in the Field Today, we dive into social work in the field! Field education is a fundamental component of your social work program, requiring you to complete supervised clinical practice in various settings, including hospitals and public and private agencies. On placement, you apply your theoretical knowledge to practice, developing your social work skills in real-life settings. Today's session that accompanies the online module [Module 3: Social Work in the Field] provides you with essential information that will enable you to succeed on your first social work placement. Learning outcomes: L02, L03 |
Tutorial |
Week 4: Tutorial Today, we'll explore ethical reasoning and ethical decision making in social work practice. Through interactive activities, practice scenarios and group discussions, you'll gain the knowledge, skills and insights to apply these frameworks in social work practice scenarios. These practice session in combination with the online module [Module 2: Ethics and Values in Social Work] will equip you to tackle your ethics exam next week with confidence. Best of luck! Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L05, L06 |
|
Week 5 (24 Mar - 30 Mar) |
Lecture |
Week 5: Ethics Exam Good luck with your Ethics Exam! Note: There are no tutorials this week. |
Week 6 (31 Mar - 06 Apr) |
Lecture |
Week 6: The Knowledge Base of Social Work Our class today aligns with online module [Module 4: The Knowledge Base of Social Work]. We'll explore the different forms of knowledge that inform social work practice, and how practitioners use theory in practice. Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L05 |
Tutorial |
Week 6: Tutorial Through interactive activities, practice scenarios and group discussion based on the online module [Module 4: The Knowledge Base of Social Work], we'll practice, practice, practice... to develop your capacity to use theory to inform and guide you in social work practice situations to empower and support service users. Your individual presentations commence next week so we'll discuss how to fine-tune your skills to deliver an engaging, highly professional and effective presentation that is tailored exceptionally well to your selected audience. We'll also discuss feedback literacy, a valuable skill for your future practice. Learning outcomes: L03, L04 |
|
Week 7 (07 Apr - 13 Apr) |
Lecture |
Week 7: Fields of Practice and the Organisation Today we explore a range of settings in which social workers practice and delve into these organisational cultures and practices. Looking forward to sharing experiences to deepen this analysis! This lecture accompanies the online module [Module 5: Fields of Practice and the Organisation] which will equip you with knowledge and insights into social work fields of practice that will enable you to present with impact! |
Tutorial |
Week 7: Individual Presentations [Tutorials] Today, we learn more about the fields of practice and diverse contexts in which social workers practice, as well as about the specific roles social workers undertake within different organisational contexts. We become the 'audience' for student presenters! We wish the presenters today all the best - please don't forget to let us know who your selected audience is as this will help us to ask more meaningful and relevant questions in the Q&A. |
|
Week 8 (14 Apr - 20 Apr) |
Lecture |
Week 8: Assessment in Social Work Assessment is a core social work skill. In combination with the online module [Module 6: Assessment in Social Work], this class will equip you with the knowledge, skills and frameworks to conduct psychosocial assessments within different social work practice contexts. Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L06, L07 |
Tutorial |
Week 8: Individual Student Presentations [Tutorial] Today, we continue to learn more about the fields of practice and diverse contexts in which social workers practice, as well as about the specific roles social workers undertake within different organisational contexts. We become the 'audience' for the student presenters today! We wish the presenters today all the best - please don't forget to let us know who your selected audience is as this will help us to ask more meaningful and relevant questions in the Q&A. |
|
Week 9 (28 Apr - 04 May) |
Lecture |
Week 9: Assessment in Social Work Guest Practitioner Series: Assessment in Social Work Over the next few weeks, we’ll have the privilege of welcoming guest practitioners who will share their practices, insights, and guidance on the assessment process in social work. We will focus on psychosocial assessment examples in two distinct practice contexts: hospital and healthcare, and asylum-seeking and refugee resettlement. This series offers a unique opportunity to deepen your critical understanding of assessment processes within different social work settings. These sessions, combined with the online module [Module 6: Assessment in Social Work], are designed to support your upcoming assignment based on the video analysis ‘I’ll Call Australia Home’. Don’t miss this chance to learn from experienced professionals! Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L06, L07 |
Tutorial |
Week 9: Tutorial Activities and discussions in this interactive tutorial will build on the activities in the online module [Module 6: Assessment in Social Work] on assessment practice in social work. You will be guided to explore all aspects of the assessment process! You will be introduced to a range of assessment tools and frameworks - there are many! These can be structured tools, proformas and questionnaire, each tailored to the specific purpose of the assessment, presenting issues, referral quality, and organisational demands and resources. Additionally, you will have an opportunity to reflect more deeply on the social work concept, ‘use of self’ which is also covered in Module 6. This session is designed to enhance your understanding and skills, making you more confident and effective in your practice. Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07 |
|
Week 10 (05 May - 11 May) |
Lecture |
Week 10: Working Across Difference In today's class, we'll explore concepts of difference and diversity and their impact on social work practice. Building on your work in online Module 6, we'll explore intersectionality theory and approaches to working with people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. We'll focus on anti-oppressive perspectives and culturally safe practices, ensuring that social workers consider structural disadvantages and actively work to combat oppression and discrimination based on race, gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. This session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful difference in your practice. Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07 |
Tutorial |
Week 10: Tutorial Through a variety of stimulating activities and peer discussion based on the online module [Module 6: Assessment in Social Work], this session will challenge you to critically reflect and build your knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively and sensitively to the social, economic, and cultural diversity of individuals and groups. We’ll explore culturally responsive practices, with a special focus on working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07 |
|
Week 11 (12 May - 18 May) |
Lecture |
Week 11: Assessment in Social Work Guest Practitioner Series (continued): Assessment in Social Work Please see Week 9. This week we will continue to explore the empowering processes of social work assessment and consider how it provides the basis for implementing agreed interventions which assist people to develop power and control over their lives. Psychosocial assessment examples will deepen your critical understanding of assessment processes within different social work settings. This class, combined with the online module [Module 6: Assessment in Social Work] will support your upcoming assignment based on the video analysis ‘I’ll Call Australia Home’. Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L06, L07 |
Tutorial |
Week 11: Tutorial Activities and discussions in this interactive tutorial will build on the activities in the online module [Module 6: Assessment in Social Work] on assessment practice in social work. We’ll draw on practical examples and real-world scenarios to explore different aspects of the assessment process. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and engage in meaningful discussions! Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L06, L07 |
|
Week 12 (19 May - 25 May) |
Lecture |
Week 12: Intervention in Social Work What does ‘intervention’ mean in the field of social work? Today’s class will develop your understanding of evidence-informed intervention, outcomes and evaluation processes. By working alongside the online module [Module 7: Intervention in Social Work], we’ll apply key elements of social work to intervention planning. Learning outcomes: L02, L04, L06, L07 |
Tutorial |
Week 12: Tutorial Get ready to develop some practical skills in today's tutorial! Please bring your notes from the online module [Module 7: Intervention in Social Work]. We'll critique an intervention plan and explore ways to enhance it. Plus, you'll have the chance to practice writing a social work intervention plan. This hands-on session is designed to increase your confidence and expertise in intervention planning. Note: Your assignment is due next week on Monday 26th May at 1pm. Learning outcomes: L02, L04, L06, L07 |
|
Week 13 (26 May - 01 Jun) |
Lecture |
Week 13: 'Putting it all together' Putting It All Together! Are you ready for your first placement? In our final class, we will bring together all the elements of social work you have learned throughout this course. This is your opportunity to consolidate your knowledge, engage in meaningful evaluation and review, and consider the next steps on your learning journey to become a social worker. Don't miss this exciting session! |
Tutorial |
Week 13: Final Tutorial: Let's Celebrate! Final Tutorial! Let’s relax and bring some delicious food to share! It’s time to celebrate all your hard work and achievements over the Semester. Endings are very important in social work – let’s make ours memorable! |
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.