SOWK 724 Advanced Social Work Practice with Groups

Course Syllabus

I. Purpose/Rationale of the Course

This course builds upon foundation knowledge and skills of social work practice with groups. It is based in the reality that social workers in all service settings are called upon to provide interventions through a variety of groups that are utilized to meet clients’ needs and agency purposes.

II. Content of the Course

This course focuses on advanced social work practice with groups. Students will learn assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills appropriate for group work with people who are experiencing problems with violence, substance abuse, physical and mental illness, life transitions and developmental issues (including parenting, divorce, employment, aging, and death) and identity issues. Skills and techniques relevant to group work with at-risk and diverse populations will be emphasized. Values and ethical issues relating to working with groups at an advanced level of practice will be addressed.

III. Course Objectives

A student who successfully completes this course will be able to:

1. critically evaluate theoretical perspectives pertaining to interpersonal group work practice with diverse and at-risk clients who are being challenged by life problems and transitions;

2. analyze the unique factors which must be considered in planning, implementing, and evaluating group work interventions to address diverse and complex client situations and needs and discuss their implications for making practice decisions;

3. differentially select and effectively use advanced group work skills that are grounded in group work theory and are appropriate for solving complex problems and enhancing strengths in diverse and at-risk populations in each phase of interpersonal social work groups; 

4. identify and analyze ethical dilemmas which may arise in the practice of social work with groups, and suggest responses to each which are consistent with the NASW Code of Ethics.

IV. Linkages to Other Courses

This advanced course builds upon the understanding of group dynamics and beginning practice with both task and interpersonal groups which is developed in SOWK 710 during the foundation year. Additionally, it builds upon practice experiences gained during the foundation year generalist field practica, SOWK 781 and 782, and during the concurrent concentration field practicum, SOWK 783. It also provides students an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills gained in foundation year research courses, SOWK 791 and 792, in the evaluation of practice.

V. Methods of Instruction

A number of methods will be employed to strengthen students’ preparation for social work practice with groups, including lectures, videotapes, discussion, role plays, case studies, and other experiential activities. Selected case materials from students’ field placement experiences, audiovisual materials, and prepared case materials provided by the instructor may also be used.  Emphasis will be placed on the integration of field placement experiences and course content through such tools as case consultation, learning journals and logs, and field-based case studies, and written and oral assignments focusing on the application of theory to practice in the field.

Any student who because of a disability may need special arrangements or accommodations to meet the requirements of this course should consult with the instructor as soon as possible. The office of Disability Services provides an array of services to meet the needs of students with disabilities, according to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. See information and guidelines provided in The Carolina Community: Student Handbook and Policy Guide.