WS1007 - Lifespan Development and Psychology for Social Welfare Practice

This subject is structured around five topics. Topic 1 introduces psychology in the context of social work and explores the implications of scientific thinking and methodology. Topics 2, 3 and 4 address learning, lifespan development and social psychology as exemplars of historically central areas of investigation in social work. Topic 5 addresses stress and coping from the newer, more applied area of social work practice. Students are guided in their independent examination of a topic area of their interest and choice which emphasises analysis and synthesis of information, conceptual thinking, reflective learning and acquisition of sufficient knowledge to provide a basis for understanding. In addition, this provides some scope for application to daily and professional life. While primarily targeting social work and community welfare students, this subject would be of interest to students seeking an introduction to the field of social welfare.

Learning Outcomes

• identify and explain key psychological concepts and theories in relation to social work practice;
• examine and critically analyse the impact of social- economic status, relationships ~ and environment on the health and wellbeing of individuals, groups and communities;
• evaluate the ways in which social workers can effectively work with individuals, groups and communities to respond to their human development, behaviour and needs across the lifespan;
• demonstrate an understanding of psychosocial health and wellbeing across the lifespan in a variety of health and community settings using a modified problem-based approach.

Subject Assessment

• Test/Quiz - Four online quizzes: 1x20%; 3x10% - (50%) - Individual
• Written > Project report - (50%) - Individual.

Special Assessment Requirements

Passing requirements: Complete at least 3 of the 4 online quizzes; achieve a cumulative score of at least 50% after the application of any penalties such as late penalties.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.