SOWK 705: Integrative Seminar: Human Behavior in the Social Environment

 Course Syllabus

I. Purpose/Rationale of the Course

This course is designed to review and expand students’ knowledge about human development and behavior in the social environment that is a necessary foundation for learning effective social work practice. It is assumed that students have already had at least one social work course in human behavior. Students will achieve an understanding of the factors which influence and shape family life and individual development within the context of society, communities, organizations, and institutions.

II. Content of the Course

The course considers various theories about human behavior in the social environment. The focus of this course is the reciprocal interactions between larger social systems--society, communities, institutions, and organizations--and families or individuals. The course reviews basic systems concepts, introduces cultural, community, organizational, and institutional theories, and examines how human needs are met or frustrated by these larger systems. The course stresses the importance of attending to the interrelatedness of all contextual factors in the study of human behavior and includes a diversity perspective, with particular attention given to cultures, class and socioeconomic status, race and ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. The impact of social and economic forces is examined.

III. Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will demonstrate an ability to:

1. Evaluate and critically analyze perspectives and theories about human behavior in the social environment as they relate to social institutions, social structure, and social settings;

2. Recognize and respect the strengths and cultural practices of diverse populations;

3. Identify and analyze the dynamics of oppression and consequences for populations at risk;

4. Assess factors beyond individual and family systems when working with client populations.

IV. Linkages to other courses

This advanced standing course in meant to enhance and build upon learning acquired during an undergraduate BSW program. It provides a knowledge base upon which the practice courses, SOWK 700 and SOWK 701 can build. The critical evaluation of theory supports the research courses, SOWK 702 and SOWK 703. An understanding of oppression and privilege contributes to an appreciation of social welfare policy as presented in SOWK 704. In addition, the course will prepare for student’s entry into the advanced year. Knowledge base is reinforced by courses taken concurrently and provides a foundation for advanced year.

V. Methods of Instruction

This course will be taught through use of lectures, large and small group discussions, audiovisual presentations, experiential exercises, and class presentations.

VI. Course Requirements

Students are expected to attend all class sessions, participate in class discussion, and complete all assigned readings. Absence from class, whether excused or unexcused, may result in a lowered course grade or, in extreme instances, in the awarding of a grade of “F” for the course.

Students should be familiar with the USC Carolinian Creed and Student Rights and Freedoms Within the Academic Community, available on the USC website. Students can expect COSW course instructors to be available for all class sessions, from beginning to end as scheduled, in accordance with the course syllabus and the USC academic calendar unless special circumstances arise.

Two graded exercises, which may vary by instructor, constitute minimum expectations for the awarding of the course grade. Individual instructors may require additional assignments. At least one assignment will help students develop skills for effective written communication. Use of APA style and format in writing and use of non-sexist and person-first language in class discussion and written assignments is required.

VII. Course Outline

A. THEORETICAL AND CONCEPTUAL FOUNDATIONS

1. Summary of selected macro theories

a. systems/ecosystems

b. structural functionalism

c. conflict

d. rational/social exchange

e. social constructivism

2. Diversity and strengths perspective

B. SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS

1. Political Economy

a) Economic System

b) Political System

c) Political Economy

2. Government-related Social Institutions

a) Social Welfare

b) Education

c) Criminal Justice

3. Non-Government-related Social Institutions

a) Medicine and Health Care

b) Religion

c) Media

C. SOCIAL STRUCTURE AND AMERICAN SOCIETY

1. Social Structure

2.Cultural Diversity

3. Other Social Status Groups

D. SOCIAL SETTINGS

1. Locational Communities

2. Organizations

3. Residential Institutions