Overview
The final theory unit in the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) course provides students with advanced knowledge of social work theory and its relevance to social work practice. This unit requires students to build upon social research methods learning and practice knowledge gained from Field Education 1 (SOWK13009) and Integrating Theory and Practice 1 (SOWK13010) to apply research knowledge and skills to address the needs and aspirations of individuals, groups and communities to achieve socially just outcomes. Students will demonstrate graduate ability to apply research knowledge and skills and use research to inform practice and to develop, execute and disseminate research informed by practice. This unit is a co-requisite to SOWK14009 and is only available at the time the student undertakes field education unless prior approval has been granted by the School.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
Prerequisites: SOWK13009, SOWK13010, SOWK14005, SOWK14006 Corequisite: SOWK14009 Fieldwork Education 2
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 2 - 2022
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes – in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Undergraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of ‘pass’ in order to pass the unit. If any ‘pass/fail’ tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully (‘pass’ grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the ‘assessment task’ section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University’s Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback – Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
Feedback, Recommendations and Responses
Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.
Feedback from Have your Say
Information on 'what to do' when the practice issue has limited or no evidence base
Expand on practice-based evidence as part of the unit to improve critique.
- Evaluate your performance from feedback drawn from your involvement in professional learning contexts
- Construct and critically evaluate a Professional Practice Framework (PPF) and demonstrate how that PPF is informed by social work theory, ethics and AASW practice standards
- Demonstrate knowledge and proficiency utilising frameworks of critical analysis and reflective practice
- Apply research knowledge and skills to undertake research informed practice congruent with social work values and ethics
- Explore complex and sensitive social issues and problems to achieve socially just outcomes
- Present a clear and coherent exposition of knowledge and ideas to a variety of audiences in both oral and written form.
The learning outcomes in this unit are linked to the AASW social work graduate attributes outlined in the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (2015).
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
1 - Presentation and Written Assessment - 40% | ||||||
2 - Written Assessment - 60% |
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
1 - Communication | ||||||
2 - Problem Solving | ||||||
3 - Critical Thinking | ||||||
4 - Information Literacy | ||||||
5 - Team Work | ||||||
6 - Information Technology Competence | ||||||
7 - Cross Cultural Competence | ||||||
8 - Ethical practice | ||||||
9 - Social Innovation | ||||||
10 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures |
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Graduate Attributes
Assessment Tasks | Graduate Attributes | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | |
1 - Presentation and Written Assessment - 40% | ||||||||||
2 - Written Assessment - 60% |
Textbooks
Applying Research Evidence in Social Work Practice
(2015)
Authors: Webber, M.
Red Globe Press ( Bloomsbury )
London London , UK
ISBN: 9781137276117
Binding: eBook
Additional Textbook Information
Both paper and eBook versions of the book can be purchased at the CQUni Bookshop here: http://bookshop.cqu.edu.au (search on the Unit code)
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
- Microphone and camera for use with Zoom
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: Harvard (author-date)
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
s.ledger@cqu.edu.au
Module/Topic
Overview of SOWK14010
Core Concepts for Social Work Practice
Chapter
e-Reading List
Lecture via Zoom
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom Session - TBC via Moodle
Module/Topic
Common Factors for Therapeutic Alliance
Session Rating Scales
Chapter
e-library List
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Evidence Based Practice - Process
Formulating the Question
Chapter
e-Library Reading List
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom Session TBC via Moodle
Module/Topic
Evidence Based Practice
Research Informed Practice - Searching Skills
Chapter
e-Library Reading List
Events and Submissions/Topic
Topic Sheet Submitted Via Moodle
Module/Topic
Evidence Based Practice
The Client
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom session TBC via Moodle
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Meta-Analysis and Systematic Reviews
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom Session TBC via Moodle
Art and Science of Social Work - Common Factors for Therapeutic Relationship Due: Week 6 Friday (26 Aug 2022) 6:00 pm AEST
Module/Topic
Collaborative Discussions with Clients
Chapter
e-Library List
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Collaborative Planning - Skills and Needs
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom Session TBC Moodle
Module/Topic
Intervention Plans - EBP
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Evidence Based Practice - Critical Thinking
Chapter
e-Library List Moodle
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Evidence Based Practice - Analysis
Chapter
Independent Research
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Evidence Based Practice
Chapter
Independent Research
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
There is a compulsory residential school for this unit (AASW accreditation requirement). This residential school is held 8-10 July at CQU Brisbane campus. Register via Moodle.
1 Presentation and Written Assessment
Focus Statement
Social work is considered by many as both an art and a science. You have been learning about the importance of supporting and evidencing practice with research and knowledge to better articulate, support and improve the quality of your interventions and practice approaches with individuals and groups. This task focuses on the relational aspects of our work including use of self and factors that enhance the quality of the therapeutic or support relationship.
Product
In addition to applying the best available evidence for treatment or intervention approaches (the focus of Assessment 2), other key factors must be considered and incorporated into our practice. One example of this is the importance of the therapeutic relationship. Research has consistently identified specific practitioner and treatment or intervention characteristics that are likely to influence the quality of the therapeutic relationship and therefore the strength of a range of therapeutic intervention choices. These include :
*accurate empathy * warmth * positive regard * cultivating hope * adapting intervention to the client’s stage of change * cultural sensitivity and safe practice.
Using a format that is meaningful to you, reflect on and synthesise research and knowledge about the common factors for an effective therapeutic / support relationship in your practice context.
Your submission can be in any of the below formats (15 - 20 mins max / 1800 words commentary) describing and critically evaluating the application of specific skills and approaches to support the therapeutic relationship within your organisational / placement context. If your placement is not in direct practice, you should direct your presentation to the field of practice your organisation is funded to service (e.g., If you are in policy within domestic and family violence you should focus on frontline practitioners / practice in domestic and family violence work, if you are in a community development role focusing on homelessness, you should target your presentation to be delivered to frontline workers supporting those impacted by homelessness). Your presentation should include an overview of current research related to the common factors for an effective therapeutic relationship within that service context.
- 15-20 mins podcast
- A recorded presentation with slides (PPT) (15-20 mins)
- A series of social media posts for a practice interest group in your area
- A short video (15-20 mins)
- A training program overview with content for delivery of (1) session of your choosing
- A manual / handbook for unfamiliar staff covering content
- A series of blog posts or an article for LinkedIn or other career / practice site (with references)
- Any artistic product that combines verbal / written and visual representation (your written analysis should include the drafting process, explanation of techniques or approaches and how they relate to the therapeutic relationship factors you researched for your chosen practice context.
All submissions must not exceed 20 mins and must include 1800 words including references commentary / written support.
Podcast or Audio / Video presentation – 15 mins max
Commentary Notes – 1800 words (adhering to scholarly conventions)
Recorded presentation / PPT – 15 PPT slides max including reference slide (should not exceed 20 mins) 1800 words commentary support
Blog posts / Social Media posts etc -1800 words (adhering to scholarly conventions)
Training manual / handbook – 1800 words (excluding images, tables, figures)
Week 6 Friday (26 Aug 2022) 6:00 pm AEST
Submit via Moodle
Week 8 Friday (9 Sept 2022)
Submissions will be returned to students within 2-3 weeks of submission
SOWK14010: Art and science of social work – Common factors for therapeutic relationship.
Assessment 1: Marking Criteria/Rubric
HD 84.5-100% | D 74.5-84.49% | C 64.50-74.49% | P 49.50-64.49% | F <49.5% | MARKS |
Presentation and Structure – overall submission (10%) | |||||
Excellent discussion which completely conforms to the Assignment Presentation guidelines. Assignment cover page including name, student number, and word count. Correct spelling, grammar, sentence structure and paragraphs where applicable. Within expected word length. Makes effective use of the chosen format to communicate the creator’s ideas as appropriate. | Discussion mostly conforms to the Assignment Presentation guidelines. Assignment cover page including name, student number, and word count. Correct spelling, grammar, sentence structure and paragraphs where applicable. Mostly within expected word length. Mostly effective of the chosen format to communicate the creator’s ideas as appropriate. | Discussion adequately conforms to the Assignment Presentation guidelines. Assignment cover page including name, student number, and word count. Correct spelling, grammar, sentence structure and paragraphs where applicable. Adequately expected word length. Adequately effective of the chosen format to communicate the creator’s ideas as appropriate. | Discussion conforms to the Assignment Presentation guidelines. Assignment cover page including name, student number, and word count. Correct spelling, grammar, sentence structure and paragraphs where applicable. Not within expected word length. Somewhat effective chosen format to communicate the creator’s ideas as appropriate. | Discussion unsuccessfully conforms to the Assignment Presentation guidelines. Assignment cover page including name, student number, and word count. Many spelling, grammar, sentence structure and paragraphs where applicable. Beyond or below expected word length. Poor or no chosen format to communicate the creator’s ideas as appropriate. | /10 |
Demonstrates understanding of the selected characteristics and their influence on the development of a positive therapeutic relationship ……….(20%) | |||||
Demonstrates imagination, originality or flair, based on proficiency in all the learning outcomes of the unit; work is interesting or surprisingly exciting, challenging, well-read or scholarly. | Very good demonstration of imagination, originality or flair, based on proficiency in all the learning outcomes of the unit; work is interesting or surprisingly exciting, challenging, good understanding of sources read | Good demonstration of imagination, originality or flair, based on proficiency in most of the learning outcomes of the unit; work is interesting with some surprisingly exciting, challenging, good understanding of sources read | Fair demonstration of imagination, some originality, based on some proficiency in most of the learning outcomes of the unit; work is interesting and somewhat challenging, sound understanding of sources read | Poor or no demonstration of imagination, no originality or proficiency in the learning outcomes of the unit; work evidence is not interesting nor challenging; little understanding of sources read | /20 |
Synthesises ideas from research and literature to inform social work practice within context. …………(20%) | |||||
Excellent synthesis of ideas from research and literature to inform social work practice within context | Very good synthesis of ideas from research and literature to inform social work practice within context | Good synthesis of ideas from research and literature to inform social work practice within context | Fair synthesis of ideas from research and literature to inform social work practice within context | Poor or no comparison of the synthesis of ideas from research and literature to inform social work practice within context. | /20 |
Demonstrates understanding of the skills required to maximise the therapeutic relationship …..…….(20%) | |||||
Excellent demonstration of understanding of skills required to maximise the therapeutic relationship | Very good demonstration of understanding of skills required to maximise the therapeutic relationship | Good demonstration of understanding of skills required to maximise the therapeutic relationship | Fair demonstration of understanding of skills required to maximise the therapeutic relationship | Poor or no demonstration of understanding of skills required to maximise the therapeutic relationship | …./20 |
Demonstrates consideration of relevant variables for consideration when developing the therapeutic relationship …….(20%) | |||||
Excellent demonstration of the relevant variables for consideration in the development of therapeutic relationship | Very good demonstration of the relevant variables for consideration in the development of therapeutic relationship | Good demonstration of the relevant variables for consideration in the development of therapeutic relationship | Fair demonstration of the relevant variables for consideration in the development of therapeutic relationship | Poor or no demonstration of the relevant variables for consideration in the development of therapeutic relationship | /20 |
Referencing …………………………………………………………………………………………………….(10%) | |||||
All literature used is appropriate and scholarly. Minimum of 10 references Harvard referencing formatted used with no mistakes. | Most of the literature used is appropriate and scholarly. Minimum of 8 references. Harvard referencing formatted used with minimal. mistakes | Most of the literature used is appropriate and scholarly. Minimum of 6 references. Harvard referencing formatted used with some mistakes. | Some of literature used is appropriate and scholarly. Minimum of 5 references Harvard referencing formatted used with many mistake | Most of the literature used is inappropriate and not from a scholarly source. Harvard referencing formatted not used. Less than 5 references | ………./10 |
TOTAL MARKS |
- Evaluate your performance from feedback drawn from your involvement in professional learning contexts
- Construct and critically evaluate a Professional Practice Framework (PPF) and demonstrate how that PPF is informed by social work theory, ethics and AASW practice standards
- Demonstrate knowledge and proficiency utilising frameworks of critical analysis and reflective practice
- Apply research knowledge and skills to undertake research informed practice congruent with social work values and ethics
- Present a clear and coherent exposition of knowledge and ideas to a variety of audiences in both oral and written form.
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Information Literacy
- Team Work
- Information Technology Competence
- Cross Cultural Competence
- Ethical practice
2 Written Assessment
Focus Statement
Evidence based practice (EBP) has become an important influence on clinical social work practice. EBP is a process of locating and evaluating prior relevant research and is considered a collaborative, individualised intervention planning process between practitioner and the client. Research is an important part of social work practice and EBP balances the science and art of social work effectively.
Your role
Using either case study (1) or (2) located on Moodle, you are a graduate social worker responsible for the intervention work with the client. You are to utilise an EBP process (practiced at residential school) to present your findings and recommendations for intervention with the client.
(a) Assessment of the client’s concerns, strengths, and support systems;
(b) Locate and synthesise the findings of relevant Australian or International research evidence related to the presenting issue / concern / need.
(c) Reference to the values and preferences / particular needs of the client; and
(d) Reflection related to your social work practice framework, level of clinical expertise and any adjustments made with regards to supervision or professional development needs.
Product
You are to prepare a written essay outlining the evidence-based practice intervention response related to your selected client presentation. Your essay will address each of the four prompts above and address the grading criteria. Your essay should provide a synthesis of the findings and 6 step process, to provide an evidence based, social work recommendation for intervention. You should begin by formulating an answerable question that will form the basis of your review for evidence-based practice. You will use the search strategy outlined on Moodle to locate and review studies for inclusion in your essay and intervention. Your question must be sufficient to support a search of existing research literature. Your question may be related to clinical social work practice. Your research process should adhere to the following 6 steps for EBP:
Step 1: Assessment of client needs or presenting issues. The assessment informs an answerable practice question and case information needs
Step 2: The location of relevant research knowledge related to the practice question
Step 3: Critical appraisal of the quality and relevance or applicability of this knowledge to the specific client’s needs and situation
Step 4: Identification of how and what would be discussed with the client to collaboratively determine how the research results fit with the client’s values and goals. Outline how you would ensure the client’s culture, values, and personal preferences could be incorporated to the treatment options.
Step 5: Synthesis and discussion of the client’s needs and circumstances with the relevant research results and overall plan of intervention described.
Step 6: Discussion about how you would evaluate / review / collaborate with the client around the intervention and how the approach is working for the client.
Your paper should adhere to scholarly conventions and should draw from relevant social work literature, practice standards and ethical considerations.
Weighting
60%
Word Limit
2500 words excluding references, tables, diagrams and appendices. A 10% under or over allowance is acceptable within this word limit.
The word count is considered from the first word of the introduction to the last word of the conclusion. It excludes the cover page, abstract, contents page, reference list and appendices. It includes in-text references and direct quotations.
Week 12 Friday (7 Oct 2022) 6:00 pm AEST
Submit online in Moodle
Exam Week Friday (21 Oct 2022)
Submissions will be returned to students within 2 - 3 weeks of submission
SOWK14010: Evidence based practice – Clinical social work
Assessment 2: Marking Criteria/Rubric
HD 84.5-100% | D 74.5-84.49% | C 64.50-74.49% | P 49.50-64.49% | F <49.5% | MARKS |
Presentation and Structure – overall submission (10%) | |||||
Excellent discussion which completely conforms to the Assignment Presentation guidelines. Assignment cover page including name, student number, and word count. Correct spelling, grammar, sentence structure and paragraphs where applicable. Within expected word length. | Discussion mostly conforms to the Assignment Presentation guidelines. Assignment cover page including name, student number, and word count. Correct spelling, grammar, sentence structure and paragraphs where applicable. Mostly within expected word length. Mostly effective | Discussion adequately conforms to the Assignment Presentation guidelines. Assignment cover page including name, student number, and word count. Correct spelling, grammar, sentence structure and paragraphs where applicable. Adequately expected word length. | Discussion conforms to the Assignment Presentation guidelines. Assignment cover page including name, student number, and word count. Correct spelling, grammar, sentence structure and paragraphs where applicable. Not within expected word length. | Discussion unsuccessfully conforms to the Assignment Presentation guidelines. Assignment cover page including name, student number, and word count. Many spelling, grammar, sentence structure and paragraphs where applicable. Beyond or below expected word length. | /10 |
Demonstrates application of an evidence-based practice process, adhering to all relevant steps ……….(20%) | |||||
Demonstrates excellence in application of an evidence-based process adhering to all relevant steps | Very good demonstration of application of an evidence-based process adhering mostly to relevant steps | Good demonstration of application of an evidence-based process adhering to mostly to relevant steps | Fair demonstration of application of an evidence-based process adhering to some of the relevant steps | Poor or no demonstration of application of an evidence-based process adhering to few or none relevant steps | /20 |
Demonstrates critical analysis of best available research including making recommendations for intervention ……………………………………………………………………..(20%) | |||||
Excellent demonstration of critical analysis of best available research including making recommendations | Very good demonstration of critical analysis of most available research including making recommendations | Good demonstration of critical analysis of some available research including making some recommendations | Fair demonstration of critical analysis of few available research including making few recommendations | Poor or no demonstration of critical analysis with little or no available research and no recommendations evident | /20 |
Demonstrates integration of theory and social work knowledge to discuss a practice issue or problem and associated intervention plan …..…………………………………………….(20%) | |||||
Excellent demonstration of integration of theory and social work knowledge in discussing a practice issue or problem and associated intervention plan | Very good demonstration of integration of theory and social work knowledge in discussing a practice issue or problem and associated intervention plan | Good demonstration of demonstration of integration of theory and social work knowledge in discussing a practice issue or problem and associated intervention plan | Fair demonstration of integration of theory and social work knowledge in discussing a practice issue or problem and associated intervention plan | Poor or no demonstration of integration of theory and social work knowledge in discussing a practice issue or problem and associated intervention plan | …./20 |
Individualises and contextualises the intervention plan ………………………….(20%) | |||||
Excellent demonstration of an intervention plan that is individualised and contextualised. | Very good demonstration of an intervention plan that is individualised and contextualised | Good demonstration of an intervention plan that is individualised and contextualised | Fair demonstration of an intervention plan that is individualised and contextualised | Poor or no demonstration of an intervention plan that is individualised and contextualised | /20 |
Referencing …………………………………………………………………………………………………….(10%) | |||||
All literature used is appropriate and scholarly. Critical analysis of social work literature. Minimum of 10 references Harvard referencing formatted used with no mistakes. | Most of the literature used is appropriate and scholarly. Critical analysis of social work literature Minimum of 8 references. Harvard referencing formatted used with minimal. mistakes | Most of the literature used is appropriate and scholarly. Critical analysis of social work literature Minimum of 6 references. Harvard referencing formatted used with some mistakes. | Some of literature used is appropriate and scholarly. Critical analysis of social work literature Minimum of 5 references Harvard referencing formatted used with many mistake | Most of the literature used is inappropriate and not from a scholarly source. Harvard referencing formatted not used. No critical analysis of social work literature Less than 5 references | ………./10 |
TOTAL MARKS |
- Construct and critically evaluate a Professional Practice Framework (PPF) and demonstrate how that PPF is informed by social work theory, ethics and AASW practice standards
- Demonstrate knowledge and proficiency utilising frameworks of critical analysis and reflective practice
- Apply research knowledge and skills to undertake research informed practice congruent with social work values and ethics
- Explore complex and sensitive social issues and problems to achieve socially just outcomes
- Present a clear and coherent exposition of knowledge and ideas to a variety of audiences in both oral and written form.
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Information Literacy
- Team Work
- Information Technology Competence
- Cross Cultural Competence
- Ethical practice
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.