Overview
In this unit you will be offered a range of learning opportunities to engage with key theories that have informed professional social work practice. This unit presents both structural and personal theories, and how these can be integrated for professional practice, such as working with change and complexity. Structural theories include post modernism, critical theory and ecological perspectives; personal theories include psychological approaches, humanism, grief, loss and trauma-informed practice. This unit also explores change models and how these inform the development of assessment and intervenion strategies. You will engage in the process of critical reflection and exploring your values and beliefs, in order to develop an emerging ethical theoretical framework for your professional social work practice.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
SOWK11015 Professional Communication in Human Services
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 1 - 2025
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes - in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Undergraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of 'pass' in order to pass the unit. If any 'pass/fail' tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully ('pass' grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the 'assessment task' section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University's Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure - Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure - International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback - Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
Feedback, Recommendations and Responses
Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.
Feedback from Student evaluation
Most students indicate they are highly satisfied with all aspects of the unit.
The unit coordinator will continue to explore ways of helping students make connections between theory and practice.
Feedback from Unit Coordinator
Students who attend the Zoom sessions indicate the sessions facilitate their learning and application of theory to practice. However, there is minimal student attendance at Zoom sessions and participation in unit forums.
The unit coordinator will explore ideas for increasing student engagement with weekly unit content and their peers.
- Identify theoretical perspectives that have informed the professional practice of social work
- Analyse theoretical perspectives and apply to social work practice contexts
- Integrate social work theories with your emerging professional practice frameworks
- Appraise and critically reflect on feedback drawn from your experiences in professional learning contexts.
This unit addresses components of Practice Standard Objectives (2003): 1,2,3 and 6
These suggested amendments are in line with the ASWEAS (2020) and anticipate the further changes needed for the 2022 re-accreditation process for the existing BSW.
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
| Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| 1 - Written Assessment - 50% | ||||
| 2 - Presentation and Written Assessment - 50% | ||||
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
| Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| 1 - Communication | ||||
| 2 - Problem Solving | ||||
| 3 - Critical Thinking | ||||
| 4 - Information Literacy | ||||
| 5 - Team Work | ||||
| 6 - Information Technology Competence | ||||
| 7 - Cross Cultural Competence | ||||
| 8 - Ethical practice | ||||
| 9 - Social Innovation | ||||
| 10 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures | ||||
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Graduate Attributes
| Assessment Tasks | Graduate Attributes | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | |
| 1 - Written Assessment - 50% | ||||||||||
| 2 - Presentation and Written Assessment - 50% | ||||||||||
Textbooks
Modern Social Work Theory
5th edition (2020)
Authors: Malcolm Payne
Bloomsbury
Sydney Sydney , NSW , Australia
ISBN: 9781352011081
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: American Psychological Association 7th Edition (APA 7th edition)
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
m.chesham@cqu.edu.au
Module/Topic
Social Work Theory and Practice: Knowledge Base of Social Work
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan. Chapters 1
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
- Take some time to carefully read the unit profile, including the assessment tasks, and orientate yourself to the unit Moodle site, beginning with the welcome video.
- There are twelve study modules with recorded lectures, readings and resources on the topic. The welcome video discusses ways students can engage with the modules during the term and for assessment completion.
- Weekly Zoom sessions will facilitate student engagement with that week's study topic. Attendance is optional.
- It is highly recommended that students attend the Assessment Zoom sessions.
- A schedule of Zoom sessions is located in the Virtual Classes tile on the unit Moodle site.
Module/Topic
Evaluating Theory for Social Work Practice
This week explores where social workers practice, who they practice with, what issues they work with and how context informs social workers' theories, methods and interventions for practice.
Part 1 of the module explores a framework for critically evaluating the appropriateness of theory to social work practice values and ethics, and context.
Part 2 examines Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing and doing social work and incorporating critical reflection to understand the cultural lens of our practice.
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan.
Chapters 2 & 3
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Both Parts 1 & 2 comprise critical learning for this unit that students are advised to revisit throughout the term, particularly when selecting and evaluating theories for assessment purposes.
Module/Topic
Systems Theory and Bio-Psychological-Social-Spiritual (BPSS) Framework
This week, we look at the Systems Approach in Social Work, Ecosystems Perspective, and BPSS Framework and Focus on Spirituality.
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan.
Chapter 9
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Psychodynamic Theory and Attachment Theory
This week we examine the basic ideas of Psychodynamic Theory; treatment in classical psychoanalysis, classical attachment theory and new developments in attachment.
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan.
Chapters 4 & 5
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Person-centred Practice
This week we explore the origins of person-centred practice - examining humanism and existentialism. Person-centred practice has been an essential aspect of social work. The lecture focuses on the work of Carl Rogers and how his therapeutic approach and ideas have influenced social work practice.
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan.
Chapter 13
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Problem Solving and Task Centred Theories and Practice Approaches
This week, we explore the development of problem-solving, including its origins and basic principles. We will also examine the critiques of the problem-solving model.
The task-centred model will be examined as it emerged from the critique of the psychodynamic approach and, more specifically, problem-solving. The task-centred model will be outlined in some detail.
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan.
Chapter 6
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Crisis Intervention and Trauma-informed Practice
This week we look at the development of Crisis Intervention. The focus recently on trauma-informed practice has been an important development in reframing social work practice when working with people who have experienced trauma.
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan.
Chapter 6
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Cognitive and Behavioural Approaches
This week we begin with exploring classical learning theory and how that forms the basis of these approaches. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) has become the main form of intervention when working with people with mental health issues. Other developments in this space such Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan.
Chapter 7
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
This week we explore the origins of MI in the practice fields of addiction and substance misuse. MI has now been adapted for a variety of practice settings. The basic principles are outlined.
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan.
Chapter 8
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Strengths Perspective & Solution-Focused
This week, we explore the development of the strengths perspective and solutions-focused therapy. The authors of this approach argued that it was a major disruption to traditional social workers' views of clients and their work with them. The focus was on moving from 'deficiencies' to 'strengths'.
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan.
Chapter 11
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Narrative practice
This module focuses on narrative practice developed by Michael White and David Epston. The study materials highlight the postmodern influences on the unique way narrative theory understands problems and people's relationships with problems and power constructs. It aims to increase people's agency in the storying of identity.
Chapter
Textbook Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory 5th Edition, Macmillan.
Chapter 12
Visit the study module on the unit Moodle site.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Revision week.
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
1 Written Assessment
Aim
Harms and Connolly (2023) observe that social workers draw on various theoretical perspectives to inform their practice and understand the diverse settings in which they work. This assessment aims to explore the relationship between theory and social work practice by comparing two theories and examining their application in social work interventions.
Instructions
You are required to write an academic essay that compares two theories and examines how they are used in social work practice. In your essay, choose two theories from the following list covered in weeks 3-11: systems theory, psychodynamic and attachment theory, person-centered practice, problem-solving and task-centered approaches, crisis intervention and trauma-informed practice, cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, strengths and solution-focused practice, or narrative practice.
For each theory, your paper should include the following:
-
Core tenets:
-
-
Compare the similarities and differences between the two theories and their applicability to social work values and practice contexts. Your comparison should include each theory's core tenets, including its origin, purpose and how it informs social work intervention.
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2. Real-World Application:
-
-
Discuss the areas of practice where these theories are commonly utilised.
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Provide examples demonstrating your understanding of how they are applied and suited to these social work practice contexts.
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3. Key Critiques:
-
-
Provide a summary of the key critiques of each theory, comparing their main limitations and strengths.
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Explain how this knowledge can inform their use in social work practice and their relevance to social work values and ethics. For instance, explain whether the theory is widely used or contradicted for a particular practice area.
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Include an evaluation of each theory's capacity to respond appropriately to First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse service users.
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4. Reflection:
-
-
Applying reflexivity, reflect on the factors influencing your selection of the chosen theories.
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Consider the implications of these factors on your future social work practice, and explain how developing reflexivity will enhance your future practice.
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Word Limit
2000 words
You must remain within 10% of the word limit. The word count is considered from the first word of the introduction to the conclusion's last word. It excludes the cover page and reference list. It includes in-text references and direct quotations.
Late penalties of 5% per day of the available mark may be applied per the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Literature and references
Use at least eight contemporary references (<10 years) to support your discussion in this assessment. You may also use seminal scholarly literature where relevant. Suitable references include peer-reviewed journal articles, textbooks, and credible websites. When sourcing information, consider the five elements of a quality reference: currency, authority, relevance, objectivity, and coverage. Grey literature from the internet must be from reputable websites such as government, university, or peak national bodies, such as the Australian Association of Social Workers.
Requirements
-
Include a title page including student number, unit code and name, assessment type, due date, in-text word count, and the use of the Gen AI declaration statement.
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Use a conventional, legible size 12 font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, with double line spacing and 2.54cm page margins (the standard pre-set margin in Microsoft Word).
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Include page numbers on the top right side of each page in a header.
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Indent the first line of each paragraph 1.27cm (standard pre-set indent in Microsoft Word).
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Use an essay format that includes an introduction, body and conclusion.
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Write in the third-person perspective for the main body of your essay. However, the first-person perspective is appropriate for writing your reflection.
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Paraphrase, summarise or quote information acknowledging the original source (referencing) to avoid plagiarism.
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Use formal academic language and professional and inclusive language.
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Follow academic writing conventions: spell out contractions in full, introduce abbreviations and acronyms, spell out numbers from zero to nine, and use numerals for numbers 10 and above.
-
All work submitted must be your own work.
-
Use the seventh edition American Psychological Association (APA) referencing style. The CQUniversity Academic Learning Centre has an online APA Referencing Style Guide.
- The word count is considered from the first word of the introduction to the last word of the conclusion. The word count excludes the reference list but includes in-text references and direct quotations.
Resources
-
You can reference your article using unit-provided materials and other credible sources (e.g., journal articles and books). The quality and credibility of your sources are essential.
-
We recommend you access your discipline-specific library guide: the Social Work and Community Services Guide.
-
For information on academic communication, please go to the Academic Learning Centre Moodle site. The Academic Communication section has many helpful resources, including information for students with English as a second language.
Submit a draft before the due date to review your Turnitin Similarity Score before making a final submission. Instructions are available here.
Academic Integrity
1. You must abide by the principles of academic integrity (see Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure). Completing this assessment with another party or sharing responses is prohibited.
2. The use of any generative artificial intelligence is permitted for the following purposes:
a. Gen AI content is used to generate ideas and general structures.
b. Gen AI content editing.
c. Checking spelling and grammar (for example, Grammarly).
If you use Gen AI to generate ideas, you must reference the Gen AI agent per APA 7th guidelines. If you are using a Gen AI agent for content editing, please complete the declaration on the title page of your assessment. If Gen AI is not used, please delete this declaration.
The social work practice standards require students to demonstrate essential human capacities, skills, and knowledge crucial for social work practice as outlined by the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS, 2021). Social work relies on human interaction, empathy, ethical decision-making, and effective communication—skills that cannot be adequately assessed through AI-generated content. Compliance with this social work practice standard is vital for meeting ASWEAS graduate attributes and preparing for professional practice. You can support your argument using unit-provided materials and other credible sources (e.g., journal articles and books). The quality and credibility of your sources are essential.
Submission
Submit your assessment in Microsoft Word via the assessment submission area on the unit Moodle site.
References
Harms, L., & Connolly, M. 2023). Social work: from theory to practice, 4th edition. Cambridge University Press, Australia.
Week 6 Thursday (24 Apr 2025) 6:00 pm AEST
Submission via Moodle
Week 9 Tuesday (13 May 2025)
The return date accounts for public holidays.
|
Criteria |
HD 84.5-100% |
D 74.5 – 84.49% |
C 64.50-74.49% |
P 49.50-64.49% |
Fail <49.5% |
MARKS |
|
Demonstrated understanding and comparison of the core tenets of two theories for social work practice using a personalised writing style that reflects the student's understanding. (10%) |
Excellent multifaceted understanding and comparison of the core tenets of two theories. (8.5 - 10 marks) |
Very good understanding and comparison of the core tenets of the two theories. (7.5 - 8.4) |
Good understanding and comparison of the core tenets of the two theories. (6.5 - 7.4 marks) |
Basic understanding and comparison of the core tenets of two theories and a superficial or partial explanation. (5 – 6.4 marks) |
Inadequate or incorrect understanding and comparison of the core tenets of two theories. (0 – 4.9 marks) |
............/10 |
|
Demonstrated understanding of areas of practice where the selected theories are commonly utilised using a personalised writing style that reflects the student's understanding. Provides examples to demonstrate an understanding of how the theories are applied and suited to these social work contexts. (10%) |
Excellent analysis showing links between theory and practice context. (8.5 - 10 marks) |
Very good analysis showing links between theory and practice context. (7.5 - 8.4) |
Good level of analysis showing links between theory and practice context. (6.5 - 7.4 marks)
|
Basic analysis showing some links between theory and practice context. (5 – 6.4 marks) |
Inadequate and or poor analysis of the links between theory and practice context. (0 – 4.9 marks) |
............./10 |
|
Analyses and compares the key critiques of the chosen theories and discusses how this knowledge informs social practice using a personalised writing style that reflects the student's understanding.. The evaluation needs to include an analysis of the theory's relevance to social work values and ethics and their suitability for working with First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse service users. (10%) |
Advanced critique and comparison of the strengths and limitations of the chosen theories for social work practice with diverse service-users. (8.5 - 10 marks) |
Well-developed critique and comparison of the strengths and limitations of the chosen theories for social work practice with diverse service-users. (7.5 - 8.4) |
Sound critique and comparison of the strengths and limitations of the chosen theories for social work practice with diverse service users. (6.5 - 7.4 marks) |
Basic and or partial critique and comparison of the strengths and limitations of the chosen theories for social work practice with diverse service-users. (5 – 6.4 marks) |
Inadequate and/or poor critique and comparison of the two chosen theories for social work practice with diverse service-users. (0 – 4.9 marks) |
............/10 |
|
Demonstrates ability to engage in reflective practice to identify the factors influencing theory selection and how developing reflexivity will enhance future social work practice (10%) |
Demonstrates deep insight and critical reflection on factors influencing theory selection and its impact on future practice. (8.5 - 10 marks) |
Shows strong reflective practice with clearly identifying influencing factors and implications for future practice. (7.5 - 8.4) |
Demonstrates adequate reflective practice, identifying factors influencing theory selection with some consideration of future practice. (6.5 - 7.4 marks) |
Shows minimal reflective practice with limited identification of influencing factors and implications for future practice. (5 – 6.4 marks) |
Lacks reflective practice and fails to identify factors influencing theory selection or implications for future practice. (0 – 4.9 marks) |
…………/ 10 |
|
Use of literature, including coverage of relevant information, demonstrating critical engagement with and synthesis of information using a personalised writing style that reflects the student's understanding. (5%) |
Demonstrates exceptional use of scholarly literature with comprehensive coverage of relevant information, showing outstanding critical engagement and synthesis in a highly personalised writing style. (4.25 - 5 marks) |
Shows proficient use of scholarly literature with thorough coverage of relevant information, demonstrating significant critical engagement and synthesis in a clear and personalised writing style. (3.75 - 4.24 marks) |
Good use of scholarly literature with good coverage of relevant information, showing some critical engagement and synthesis in a mostly personalized writing style. (3.25 - 3.74 marks) |
Basic use of literature with sufficient coverage of relevant information, some of which are |
Insufficient use of literature, most of which is not credible or relevant, with poor coverage of relevant information, showing minimal to no critical engagement and synthesis, and lacking a personalised writing style. (0 – 2.49 marks) |
.........../5 |
|
Written communication within the word limit, showing correct grammar and spelling and accuracy of APA referencing style. (5%) |
Outstanding level of written communication. APA referencing conventions in both in-text referencing and reference list has been accurately and consistently applied. (4.25 - 5 marks) |
Very good written communication. In both in-text referencing and the reference list, APA referencing conventions have been used accurately and consistently with minimal mistakes. (3.75 - 4.24 marks) |
Good written communication. APA referencing conventions in both in-text referencing and the reference list have been used with some mistakes. (3.25 - 3.74 marks) |
Adequate written communication. Attempts were made to adhere to APA referencing conventions in both in-text referencing and the reference list, but with errors and inconsistencies. (2.5 - 3.24 marks) |
Poor standard of written communication. Adherence to APA referencing conventions in in-text referencing and the reference list is minimal. (0 – 2.49 marks) |
.........../5 |
|
Total Marks/Percentage |
|
|
|
|
|
.........../50 |
- Identify theoretical perspectives that have informed the professional practice of social work
- Analyse theoretical perspectives and apply to social work practice contexts
- Integrate social work theories with your emerging professional practice frameworks
- Appraise and critically reflect on feedback drawn from your experiences in professional learning contexts.
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Information Literacy
- Cross Cultural Competence
- Ethical practice
2 Presentation and Written Assessment
Aim
The aim of this assessment is to demonstrate your ability to integrate theory and practice. Social work draws on a range of theories to explain and describe diverse human experiences and effect social change. You will analyse two theories/models and apply them to a case study to build your knowledge of how theory informs social work practice.
Instructions
You will be provided with a case study under the Assessment tile on the unit Moodle site to demonstrate your ability to apply theory to practice. The case study will outline the service user’s presenting circumstances and background information. In a 10-12 minute audiovisual (AV) PowerPoint presentation, you are to choose two theories/approaches you consider the most appropriate to understanding and responding to the case study as a social worker. Your presentation will conclude with a 5-minute Q & A session. In this assessment, position yourself as a social work student in training (SWIT) delivering a presentation to peers.
Your PowerPoint presentation should:
-
Overview of Theories: Provide an overview of the theories/models chosen for social work practice.
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Relevance: Explain why the chosen theories/models are the most appropriate to this case study, as well as social work values and practice in this context.
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Application: Discuss how you, as a social worker, would apply these theories/models when working with the service user/client. (How does the theory help you to explain and respond to the situation?) Provide specific examples of applying the chosen theories to the case study.
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Challenges: Discuss and compare the challenges in using the theories/models in the case study and context.
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Reflection: Examine the importance of the chosen theories/models to you and how this might influence your developing social work identity and professional practice. Identify the strategies you will utilise to consider the suitability of various theoretical perspectives to diverse service users, practice contexts, and social work values and ethics.
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Interactive Q&A: Your presentation will conclude with a 5-minute Q&A session, during which you will answer questions from your peers and instructor.
Presentation Requirements
-
The AV presentation will be 10-12 minutes long, followed by an additional 5-minute Q&A to demonstrate your application of theory to practice.
-
Like essay word counts, penalties for going under and over 10% of the allocated time will be applied. Practice the presentation and time yourself beforehand.
-
You will select a Zoom session during which you will deliver your presentation to a small group of peers and an instructor. You are required to stay for the entire Zoom session. The session will be recorded for marking purposes.
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You are required to submit your PowerPoint presentation to the submission are on Moodle by Monday, the 2nd of June at 10 am (AEST). Contact TaSAC for assistance (toll-free phone number 1300 666 620) if you experience difficulties submitting your assessment to Moodle.
-
You are positioned as a social work student in training (SWIT) presenting to your peers.
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Use formal academic language. The presentation should be in the third person, except for the reflective practice, which should be in the first person.
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An engaging presentation will discuss the key points rather than just reading from the PowerPoint slides.
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Use conventional and legible font.
-
All work submitted must be your own work.
-
References used in the presentation need to be included in a reference slide at the end of the PowerPoint. Use the seventh edition American Psychological Association (APA) referencing style. The CQUniversity Academic Learning Centre has an online APA Referencing Style Guide. Any images used must be published with a Creative Commons (CC) license, and the source must be attributed as per the requirements of their CC license.
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After your presentation, you will participate in a 5-minute Q&A session. During this session, you will be required to respond to questions from your peers and instructor.
-
Additional resources will be provided on the unit Moodle site, including a workshop on designing, delivering and submitting a PowerPoint presentation.
Literature and references
Use at least eight contemporary references (<10 years) in this assessment to support your discussion. You may also use seminal scholarly literature where relevant. Suitable references include peer-reviewed journal articles, textbooks, and credible websites. When sourcing information, consider the five elements of a quality reference: currency, authority, relevance, objectivity, and coverage. Grey literature sourced from the internet must be from reputable websites such as government, university, or peak national bodies, such as the Australian Association of Social Workers.
Resources
-
You can use unit-provided materials and other credible sources (e.g., journal articles and books) to reference your argument. The quality and credibility of your sources are important.
-
We recommend you access your discipline-specific library guide: the Social Work and Community Services Guide.
-
For information on academic communication, please go to the Academic Learning Centre Moodle site. The Academic Communication section has many helpful resources, including information for students with English as a second language.
-
Submit a draft before the due date to review your Turnitin Similarity Score before making a final submission.
Academic Integrity
1. You must abide by the principles of academic integrity (see Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure). Completing this assessment with another party or sharing responses is prohibited.
2. The use of any generative artificial intelligence is permitted for the following purposes:
a. Gen AI content is used to generate ideas and general structures.
b. Gen AI content editing.
c. Checking spelling and grammar (for example, Grammarly).
If you use Gen AI to generate ideas, you are required to reference the Gen AI agent as per APA 7th guidelines. If you are using a Gen AI agent for content editing, please complete the declaration on the title page of your assessment. If Gen AI is not used, please delete this declaration.
The social work practice standards require students to demonstrate essential human capacities, skills, and knowledge crucial for social work practice as outlined by the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS, 2021). Social work relies on human interaction, empathy, ethical decision-making, and effective communication—skills that cannot be adequately assessed through AI-generated content. Compliance with this social work practice standard is vital for meeting ASWEAS graduate attributes and preparing for professional practice. You can support your argument using unit-provided materials and other credible sources (e.g., journal articles and books). The quality and credibility of your sources are essential.
Submission
Submission will be a two-part process:
-
Submit your presentation slides by the due date via the Unit Moodle site.
-
You will present live to your lecturer or marker and fellow students using Zoom, a video conferencing program. Your lecturer will help you use Zoom and arrange a suitable time for you to present during week 12.
-
Your presentation will be recorded for marking purposes. Only your lecturer and marker will have access to this video, which will be stored securely.
Late penalties of 5% per day of the available mark may be applied as per the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Contact TASAC if you experience technical issues submitting your assessment:
Phone toll-free 1300 666 620
Email tasac@cqu.edu.au
If you are unsure how to do this after viewing the resources, seek support from TaSAC. Further instructions will be explained in an online Zoom session.
Week 12 Monday (2 June 2025) 10:00 am AEST
Students are required to submit the PPT to the submission area by the due date. PPT presentations will take place via Zoom over Week 12. Students are required to stay for the entire Zoom session they are allocated to.
Exam Week Monday (16 June 2025)
|
Key Criteria |
HD 84.5-100% |
D 74.5 – 84.49% |
C 64.50-74.49% |
P 49.50-64.49% |
F <49.5% |
MARKS |
|
Demonstrates understanding of the core tenets of two theories for social work practice using a personalised writing style that reflects the student's understanding. (10%) |
Excellent multifaceted understanding of the core tenets of two theories. (8.5 - 10 marks) |
Very good understanding of the core tenets of the two theories. (7.5 - 8.4) |
Good understanding of the core tenets of two theories. (6.5 - 7.45 marks) |
Basic understanding of the core tenets of two theories, but a superficial or partial explanation. (5 – 6.4 marks) |
Inadequate or incorrect understanding of the core tenets of two theories. (0 – 4.9 marks)
|
............./10 |
|
Justifies and evaluates the use of the chosen theories in understanding and providing a social work response to the case scenario using a personalised writing style that reflects the student's understanding.. (10%) |
Comprehensive justification and evaluation of the use of the chosen theories in providing a social work response. (8.5 - 10 marks) |
Well-developed justification and evaluation of the use of the chosen theories in providing a social work response. (7.5 - 8.4) |
Sound justification and evaluation of the use of the chosen theories in providing a social work response. (6.5 - 7.4 marks) |
Basic justification and evaluation of the use of the chosen theories in providing a social work response. (5 – 6.4 marks) |
Poor or unsubstantiated justification and evaluation of the use of the chosen theories in providing a social work response. (0 – 4.9 marks) |
............./10 |
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Using examples demonstrates the social work application of the theoretical approaches to the case scenario. (10%) |
Advanced application of the theoretical approaches to the case scenario. (8.5 - 10 marks) |
Very good application of the theoretical approaches to the case scenario. (7.5 - 8.4) |
Good application of the theoretical approaches to the case scenario. (6.5 - 7.4 marks) |
Basic application of some aspects of the theoretical approaches to the case scenario. (5 – 6.4 marks) |
Inadequate or incorrect application of the theoretical approaches to the case scenario. (0 – 4.9 marks) |
............./10 |
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Critically reflects on the interrelationship between theory, emerging social work identity, and professional practice using a personalised writing style that reflects the student's understanding. (5%) |
Advanced critical reflection. (4.3 - 5 marks)
|
Very good level of critical reflection. (3.75 - 4.24 marks) |
Good critical reflection. (3.25 - 3.74 marks) |
Basic critical reflection. (2.5 - 3.24 marks) |
Limited demonstration of critical reflection. (0 – 2.49 marks) |
………/5 |
|
Demonstrates appropriate engagement and understanding in the Q & A session. (5%) |
Exhibits exceptional engagement during Q&A, providing thorough and insightful responses. (4.25 - 5 marks) |
Shows strong engagement during Q&A, offering clear, insightful, and well-considered responses. (3.75 - 4.24 marks) |
Displays sound engagement during Q&A, providing clear and relevant responses. (3.25 - 3.74 marks) |
Shows basic engagement during Q&A, providing relevant but often brief or superficial responses. (2.5 - 3.24 marks) |
Exhibits poor or inadequate engagement during Q&A, providing unclear, irrelevant, or incorrect responses. (0 – 2.49 marks) |
……………./5 |
|
Use of scholarly literature, Covers relevant information, demonstrating critical engagement, interpretation and synthesis of information while coveying a personalised spoken and written style that reflects the students' understanding (5%) |
Exceptional use of scholarly literature, covering all relevant information with outstanding critical engagement, interpretation, and synthesis, conveyed in a highly personalised and insightful style. (4.25 - 5 marks) |
Extensive use of scholarly literature, covering relevant information with significant critical engagement, interpretation, and synthesis, conveyed in a clear and personalized style.(3.75 - 4.24 marks) |
Good use of scholarly literature, covering relevant information with adequate critical engagement, interpretation, and synthesis, conveyed in a generally personalised style. (3.25 - 3.74 marks) | Satisfactory use of scholarly literature, covering some relevant information with basic critical engagement, interpretation, and synthesis, conveyed in a somewhat personalised style. (2.5 - 3.24 marks) | Inadequate use of scholarly literature, lacking coverage of relevant information, critical engagement, interpretation, and synthesis, with little to no personalised style. (0 – 2.49 marks) |
............./5 |
|
An engaging and technically well-presented PowerPoint presentation within the time limit, showing correct grammar and spelling and accuracy of APA referencing style. Demonstrates appropriate engagement in Q & A time and stays for the entire Zoom session. (5%) |
Innovative and engaging PowerPoint presentation and grammar, spelling and referencing conventions within the time limit. (4.25 - 5 marks)
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Creative and engaging PowerPoint presentation within the time limit and grammar, spelling and referencing conventions. (3.75 - 4.24 marks)
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Engaging PowerPoint presentation within the time limit with minimal grammar, spelling and referencing errors. (3.25 - 3.74 marks) . |
Basic PowerPoint presentation within the time limit with mostly accurate grammar, spelling and referencing. (2.5 - 3.24 marks)
|
Poor PowerPoint presentation, not within the time limit, with spelling and grammar errors and inadequate or incorrect referencing. (0 – 2.49 marks)
|
............./5 |
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Total Marks |
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.........../50 |
- Analyse theoretical perspectives and apply to social work practice contexts
- Integrate social work theories with your emerging professional practice frameworks
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Cross Cultural Competence
- Ethical practice
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.
What can you do to act with integrity?
