Overview
This unit is designed to build on and strengthen your direct social work practice skills, knowledge and techniques to effectively facilitate assessments and interventions. This unit focuses on the appropriate use of interpersonal communication skills and theoretical approaches for working in different contexts including culturally responsive practice. Through the practical application of relevant therapeutic approaches, you will demonstrate ability to provide accountable service in person and demonstrate knowledge of strengths and limitations of IT assisted communication such as telehealth as a mode of service delivery.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
Pre-requisite conditions - SOWK13011 Community Practice and SOWK13009 Field education 1 and SOWK13010 Integrating Theory and Practice 1.
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 - 2026
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 feedback via email
Students enjoyed the opportunity to engage in the residential school via Zoom or face to face in response to COVID-19 issues.
The attendance adjustments were AASW (Australian Association of Social Workers) approved and only for the duration of the COVID-19 health and travel restrictions.
- Demonstrate an evidence-based effective helping relationship with a diverse range of clients and consumers applying appropriate techniques and skills for practice
- Critically evaluate and reflect on the skills and techniques demonstrated in the practical application of social work practice
- Communicate the strengths and limitations of IT-assisted communication as a mode of service delivery
- Demonstrate culturally safe, sensitive and competent social work practice.
This unit complies with the AASW ASWEAS (2020) in particular:
6.3.3 The learning outcomes from the professional practice skills training in accordance with the Graduate Attributes should include core professional competencies but are not limited to:
- advanced oral communication skills and professional documentation
- assessment, engagement and decision-making with individuals and groups
- developing the personal and professional insight and emotional intelligence required for effective use of self as a professional
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
| Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| 1 - Online Quiz(zes) - 30% | ||||
| 2 - Practical Assessment - 50% | ||||
| 3 - Online discussion forum - 20% | ||||
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 - First Nations Knowledges | ||||
| 11 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures | ||||
Textbooks
There are no required textbooks.
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
- Camera and microphone for attending Zoom tutorials and completing presentation assessment task
- Zoom (both microphone and webcam capability)
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.
s.ledger@cqu.edu.au
Week 1
Begin Date: 09 Mar 2026Module/Topic
Entering Advanced Practice: Identity, Responsibility, and Complexity
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete the readings and learning activities in the module before engaging in the forum/tutorial. Identify your key learning goals for the term (self-directed learning focus).
Week 2
Begin Date: 16 Mar 2026Module/Topic
The Helping Relationship Under Pressure
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging. Practise applying concepts to a brief case scenario and note questions for discussion.
Week 3
Begin Date: 23 Mar 2026Module/Topic
Disruption as a Feature of Ethical Practice
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging. Focus on linking ethics, disruption, and practice decision-making; record a short reflection for your learning log.
Week 4
Begin Date: 30 Mar 2026Module/Topic
Digital Practice and Telehealth: Possibility and Risk
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging. Practise digital/telehealth communication skills using the guided activities.
Week 5
Begin Date: 06 Apr 2026Module/Topic
Skills Integration in Complex Client Contexts
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging.
Assessment 1 Quiz A Opens: 10:00 am (AEST) Tuesday 07 April 2026 (Week 5)
Assessment 1 Quiz A closes: 23:59 hour (AEST) Friday 10 April 2026 (Week 5)
Week 6
Begin Date: 13 Apr 2026Module/Topic
Critical Reflection as Professional Accountability
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging. Use the prompts to strengthen critical reflection as professional accountability.
Vacation Week
Begin Date: 20 Apr 2026Module/Topic
Vacation Week
Chapter
Vacation Week
Events and Submissions/Topic
No new module content. Take a break, catch up if needed, and prioritise rest and self-care so you can return ready for the second half of term.
Week 7
Begin Date: 27 Apr 2026Module/Topic
Public Voice, Ethics, and Professional Accountability
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging. Begin drafting ideas for Writing for The Conversation and use discussion prompts to refine your focus.
Week 8
Begin Date: 04 May 2026Module/Topic
Regulation, Containment, and Professional Sustainability
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging. Writing for The Conversation – Social Work, Digitisation, and Ethical Practice due Wednesday 6 May, 4:00pm (AEST). Aim to post early to allow time for peer engagement.
Writing for The Conversation – Social Work, Digitisation, and Ethical Practice Due: Week 8 Wednesday (6 May 2026) 4:00 pm AEST
Week 9
Begin Date: 11 May 2026Module/Topic
Acts of Resistance in Everyday Practice
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging. Consolidate learning by identifying “everyday resistance” actions relevant to your future placement context.
Week 10
Begin Date: 18 May 2026Module/Topic
Preparing for Advanced Practice Demonstration
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Activism and social work professional identity online workshop.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging. Begin structured preparation for the Skills Demonstration (review rubric, plan, research and rehearse). Find a peer partner via the Moodle discussion forum this week to practice and troubleshoot recording/role-play logistics.
Week 11
Begin Date: 25 May 2026Module/Topic
Demonstrating Advanced Direct Practice
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging.
Assessment 1 Quiz B opens:10:00 am (AEST) Tuesday 26 May 2026 (Week 11)
Assessment 1 Quiz B closes: 23:59 hour (AEST) Friday 29 May 2026 (Week 11)
Skills Demonstration with Structured Reflective Commentary (Part A and Part B) Due: Week 11 Wednesday (27 May 2026) 4:00 pm AEST
Week 12
Begin Date: 01 Jun 2026Module/Topic
Becoming a Social Worker: Ongoing Formation
Chapter
Readings and activities as outlined in module.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Complete readings and activities prior to engaging. Integrate feedback and reflect on professional identity and readiness for final placement (feedforward focus).
Exam Week
Begin Date: 08 Jun 2026Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Vacation/Exam Week
Begin Date: 15 Jun 2026Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Student Unit and Teaching Evaluation survey – Please complete the unit evaluation survey.
As this unit is offered online, students are asked to prepare their own individual study plan to undertake self-led and self-directed study throughout the term. A key to your success is a strategic self-directed approach to learning and regular contact with your Unit Coordinator. Please check the Announcements and Discussion forums at least twice a week – there will be regular announcements about assessments and unit resources throughout the term and reviewing this information is essential to unit knowledge and your success. CQUniversity communicates with students through CQUniversity email. We recommend that you access your CQUniversity email at least twice a week so that you do not miss vital information about your studies.
1 Online Quiz(zes)
You will complete two 15-question mixed-format online quizzes during the term.
Quiz A assesses your knowledge and understanding of materials covered in Weeks 1–5.
Quiz B assesses your knowledge and understanding of materials covered in Weeks 6–11.
Instructions
Please refer to the assessment task instructions on the unit Moodle site.
Academic Integrity
You must abide by the principles of academic integrity (see Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure). Completion of this assessment with another party or sharing of responses is not permitted at any time. This assessment requires students to adhere to the guidelines on the use of artificial intelligence tools as specified in the Artificial Intelligence Assessment Scale (AIAS). Any misuse or lack of disclosure regarding the use of AI tools will be considered a breach of academic integrity. No Generative AI use is permitted in the completion of this assignment.
Level of GenAI Use Allowed: Level 1: You must not use AI at any point during the assessment. You must demonstrate your core skills and knowledge.
Extensions
Extensions to this assessment are not available as per policy. The 72-hour grace period does not apply to this assessment.
2
Other
Quiz A Opens: 10:00 am (AEST) Tuesday 07 April 2026 (Week 5) Quiz A closes: 23:59 hour (AEST) Friday 10 April 2026 (Week 5) Quiz B opens:10:00 am (AEST) Tuesday 26 May 2026 (Week 11) Quiz B closes: 23:59 hour (AEST) Friday 29 May 2026 (Week 11)
Results for each quiz will be available immediately after the attempt is complete
Assessment criteria will be available on the Moodle site.
Minimum Pass Criteria
• You must achieve a cumulative grade of at least 49.5% across all assessments to pass this unit.
• In the event you are eligible for a supplementary assessment, all assessment tasks must be reasonably attempted in this unit.
In accordance with policy, any marks and/or grades for assessments released to students prior to Certification of Grades are provisional and are subject to moderation and confirmation through the relevant Program and Divisional Assessment Committees.
- Critically evaluate and reflect on the skills and techniques demonstrated in the practical application of social work practice
- Demonstrate culturally safe, sensitive and competent social work practice.
2 Online discussion forum
You will critically examine the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on relationships, client experiences, and social work practice, and communicate your insights to a public audience by writing an article on one selected focus area, which you will post to the class forum.
Instructions
Please refer to the assessment task instructions on the unit Moodle site.
Academic Integrity
You must abide by the principles of academic integrity (see Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure). Completion of this assessment with another party or sharing of responses is not permitted at any time. This assessment requires students to adhere to the guidelines on the use of artificial intelligence tools as specified in the Artificial Intelligence Assessment Scale (AIAS). Any misuse or lack of disclosure regarding the use of AI tools will be considered a breach of academic integrity. You are permitted to use technology or tools that assist with spelling, grammar or formatting.
Level of GenAI Use Allowed:
The use of any generative artificial intelligence is permitted as per Level 2 (AI planning) and Level 3 (AI Collaboration) AI Assessment scale tool indicators:
a. Gen AI content is used to generate ideas and general structures.
b. Gen AI content editing and proofreading.
c. Checking spelling and grammar.
d. CQUniversity’s Gen AI tools approved for use in this assessment are Microsoft Copilot (protected version), Studiosity and Grammarly.
3. Any use of Gen AI software:
a. Must be cited in the relevant sections.
b. Must be referenced as per APA 7th guidelines.
You must complete the declaration of Gen AI use on the title page of your assessment.
Extensions
Extensions to this assessment are available as per policy. The 72-hour grace period may apply to this assessment.
Week 8 Wednesday (6 May 2026) 4:00 pm AEST
Submit your assessment via the unit Moodle site in the discussion forum area.
Results for this assessment will be made available on Wednesday 27 May 2026 (Week 11)
Marking Criteria
Refer to the marking rubric on the Moodle site for more detail on how marks will be assigned. Assessment re-attempt is not available for this assessment task.
Minimum Pass Criteria
• You must achieve a cumulative grade of at least 49.5% across all assessments to pass this unit.
• In the event you are eligible for a supplementary assessment, all assessment tasks must be reasonably attempted in this unit.
In accordance with policy, any marks and/or grades for assessments released to students prior to Certification of Grades are provisional and are subject to moderation and confirmation through the relevant Program and Divisional Assessment Committees.
- Demonstrate an evidence-based effective helping relationship with a diverse range of clients and consumers applying appropriate techniques and skills for practice
- Critically evaluate and reflect on the skills and techniques demonstrated in the practical application of social work practice
- Communicate the strengths and limitations of IT-assisted communication as a mode of service delivery
- Demonstrate culturally safe, sensitive and competent social work practice.
3 Practical Assessment
You will complete a recorded audio-visual practice task that demonstrates advanced direct social work skills and includes a critical reflection on your professional practice.
Instructions
Please refer to the assessment task instructions on the unit Moodle site.
Academic Integrity
This assessment requires students to adhere to the guidelines on the use of artificial intelligence tools as specified in the Artificial Intelligence Assessment Scale (AIAS). Any misuse or lack of disclosure regarding the use of AI tools will be considered a breach of academic integrity.
1. You must abide by the principles of academic integrity (see Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure). Completion of this assessment with another party or sharing of responses is not permitted at any time.
2. The use of any generative artificial intelligence is permitted as per Level 2 (AI planning) and Level 3 (AI Collaboration) AI Assessment scale tool indicators:
a. Gen AI content is used to generate ideas and general structures.
b. Gen AI content editing and proofreading.
c. Checking spelling and grammar.
d. CQUniversity’s Gen AI tools approved for use in this assessment are Microsoft Copilot (protected version), Studiosity and Grammarly.
3. Any use of Gen AI software:
a. Must be cited in the relevant sections.
b. Must be referenced as per APA 7th guidelines.
You must complete the declaration of Gen AI use on the title page of your assessment.
Extensions
Extensions to this assessment are available as per policy. The 72-hour grace period may apply to this assessment.
Week 11 Wednesday (27 May 2026) 4:00 pm AEST
Submit your assessment via the unit Moodle site with an embedded link to your recording (Part A) in Microsoft Word format only. Your structured reflective commentary (Part B) should follow in the same word document. Instructions for the recording and sharing of video files will be available on Moodle.
Vacation/Exam Week Monday (15 June 2026)
Refer to the marking rubric on the Moodle site for more detail on how marks will be assigned.
Minimum Pass Criteria
• You must achieve a cumulative grade of at least 49.5% across all assessments to pass this unit.
• In the event you are eligible for a supplementary assessment, all assessment tasks must be reasonably attempted in this unit.
In accordance with policy, any marks and/or grades for assessments released to students prior to Certification of Grades are provisional and are subject to moderation and confirmation through the relevant Program and Divisional Assessment Committees.
- Demonstrate an evidence-based effective helping relationship with a diverse range of clients and consumers applying appropriate techniques and skills for practice
- Critically evaluate and reflect on the skills and techniques demonstrated in the practical application of social work practice
- Communicate the strengths and limitations of IT-assisted communication as a mode of service delivery
- Demonstrate culturally safe, sensitive and competent social work 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?
