SOAD2003 Social Work with Groups

2016

4.5

1 x 1-hour lecture weekly
1 x 1-hour tutorial weekly

1 SOAD1008 - Introduction to Social Work
1a SOAD1004 - Introduction to Social Work
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a))

Non specified but useful for students to be able to draw upon their own experiences as members of groups and organizations.

Part of a suite of courses underpinned by Social Planning

This topic examines the nature of practice and the role of social workers in relation to groups, including professional, organizational and community groups. Recognising a common systems theory base, the topic will explore the various concepts, theories and models that have been developed for working with groups. Exploring how groups function, the various responses to task and ambiguity-related anxiety and role of leadership within them. It will draw upon the literature of organisational studies and group relations. Students will be invited to participate in and reflect upon experiential group experiences as an important part of learning about groups. Case studies and learning activities will be used to demonstrate the integration of theory with practice.

This topic aims to:

• Increase students' familiarity with methods used with organisational systems and small group systems, recognising the commonalities of principles and techniques as well as areas of more specialised knowledge and skill.
• Orient students to the benefits of working with clients and other professionals through the use of small groups.
• Explore the role of the social worker within groups and the dynamics of group and inter-group behaviour.
• Provide an opportunity to understand and explore the role of leadership in relation to sustaining group tasks and learning.
• Provide opportunities for critical reflection of students on their role as actors in both groups and organisations.
• Analyse and evaluate both the encouragers of, and the inhibitors to, inter-personal, inter-group and inter-organisational collaboration.
• Assess the arguments for inter-organisational and inter-professional collaboration.

The process of developing knowledge and guiding principles for any social work practice involves concentration on personal as well as external factors. Self-reflection and critical analysis of practice situations are essential for understanding, informing and improving one's practice. This is a challenging activity that requires consistent effort, disciplined attention and support. Opportunities will be provided during this topic to develop capacity in these areas.

Students successfully completing this topic should be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the contribution of Group Relations to understanding group dynamics.
• Demonstrate their ability to use group work approaches in social work practice.
• Have an understanding of the role of leadership in relation to sustaining group tasks and learning.
• Analyse and evaluate both the encouragers of, and the inhibitors to, inter-personal, inter-group and inter-organisational collaboration,
• Demonstrate a critically reflexive understanding of themselves as actors with both groups and systems,