SOWK 748: Concepts of Advanced Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups

Course Syllabus

I. Purpose / Rationale of the  Course

Masters level social workers require knowledge of practice with smaller client systems in order to effectively supervise the staff who provide these services. This course is designed to provide an overview of major practice approaches and methods for work with small systems, as well as clinical and administrative supervision, for advanced year students in the Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities Concentration.

II.                Course Content

            The course focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to supervise social work practice with individuals, families, and groups in diverse practice settings.  Emphasis is placed on understanding the implications for assessment and intervention of several commonly employed theoretical approaches and models of social work practice with individuals, families, and groups, particularly those from vulnerable populations. 

Supervisory concerns, including evaluation of practice and of case documentation, clinical credentials, use of computerized expert systems in clinical practice, identification of impaired social workers, and risk management are addressed. Attention is given to administrative issues such as agency accreditation, third-party payment, the influence of the medical model, and the impact of managed care. NASW standards of practice for various service settings are examined.

III.             Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1.      Critically analyze, evaluate, and apply theories of intervention relating to social work practice with individuals, families, and groups.

2.      Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of managed care on the provision of effective social work services with individuals, families, and groups.

3.      Demonstrate both an understanding of principles of effective supervision and an ability to apply these principles competently.

4.      Demonstrate through classroom interaction/and or assignments values that affirm the strength, dignity, and worth of all individuals.

IV.              Methods Of Instruction

The teaching methods used in this course include lecture, group discussions, individual and group exercises, guest presentations, and assignments.

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.