CQUniversity Unit Profile

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SOWK29005 Social Work Theories and the Practice Context

Social Work Theories and the Practice Context

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General Information

Overview

In this unit, you will critically analyse various theories and methods of social work practice, integrating these with practical applications. You will explore competing macro-level philosophical and theoretical frameworks that define the purpose and place of social work, considering the influence of neoliberalism and other socio-political agendas. Drawing on theories and frameworks from related disciplines, particularly psychology and sociology, you will gain insights into human behaviour and relationships, situating these within broader social structures and processes. You will critically evaluate traditional and emerging practice theories and methods, assessing their relevance to diverse service user contexts and cultural backgrounds. Utilising these theoretical frameworks, you will develop ethical and transformative social work interventions to address diverse service users' needs and contribute to social justice. The unit also examines the role of social work in human service organisations, focusing on ethical tensions and organisational constraints. The unit considers how context influences the application of theory to practice, including telehealth and online service provision. You will engage in critical reflection to examine how personal experiences and perspectives influence the integration of theory into practice, considering ethical implications. Reflective practice will enhance your practice framework and identify strengths and areas for future professional growth. While completing this unit, you will undertake your second fieldwork placement to facilitate the integration of theoretical learning directly into practice.

Details

Career Level: Postgraduate

Unit Level: Level 9

Credit Points: 6

Student Contribution Band: 10

Fraction of Full-Time Student Load: 0.125

Pre-requisites or Co-requisites

Co-requisite: SOWK29007 Social Work Field Education 2

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 2 - 2026

Mixed Mode

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).