SWK-40043 - Models, Methods and Theoretical Approaches to Social Work
Coordinator: Cath Holmstrom Room: N/A
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 7
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 733928

Programme/Approved Electives for 2023/24

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2023/24

This module will enable learners to contextualise how social work theory and methods of intervention have developed within differing contexts, and to critically evaluate their potential effectiveness and impact. This module will provide learners with knowledge on: What are methods and models of intervention? What is Social Work Theory and how might this be useful for social work practice?
The teaching and learning strategies in this module be built upon an inclusive, interactive and creative teaching methodologies and learners will develop knowledge of social work methods beginning with an introductory understanding and application, to critical analysis, application and reflection. A range of small and large group strategies will be employed to encourage peer learning and feedback, as well as visual, didactic and auditory (transmission) teaching methodologies to ensure a range of learning preferences are duly considered.
The module will commence prior to the first placement but will continue alongside this in order to support the integration of theory and practice and students will be encouraged to apply learning from practice to discussions of theories and methods in the taught sessions for this module and within their tutorial groups which will take place approximately monthly and which will be structured to support the development of theory and practice integration.
VLE will also support and build on learning in-between taught session times.

Aims
The module aims to enhance the students¿ knowledge, understanding and critical engagement with the models, methods and theoretical approaches to social work necessary for professional practice that is anti-oppressive, anti-discriminatory and evidence-based.

Intended Learning Outcomes

compare and contrast different theoretical approaches in social work and associated methods of intervention and evaluate these in the context of anti-oppressive and anti-discriminatory practice: 1
critically analyse and apply different social work theory and methods: 1
critically analyse the contribution of a range of theories and methods to positive outcomes for service users, carers and families: 1

Study hours

In situ = 36 hours, made up of:
Scheduled workshops - 27 hours
Scheduled group work (formative) - 6 hours
Scheduled writing workshops - 3 hours
Remote, asynchronous, independent study hours = total of 114 hours (reading key articles and preparing for the assessment - 94 hours) and 20 hours writing the assessment

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Case Study weighted 100%
3,000-word case study
3,000-word case study The student will critically analyse and draw upon two social work theoretical approaches and methods to a case study. In this case study, the student will apply both the theory and the method to the case study and consider how theoretical underpinnings can impact upon the outcomes of service users and families. Drawing on evidence based literature about the limitations of some methods and theories, the student will develop an ability to consider the limitations of certain ideas.