SWM5132 · AOD (drug and alcohol) and social work

Overview

This unit aims to build knowledge around the Drug and Alcohol (AOD) sector exploring policies and historical context (nationally and internationally) and interventions (from assessment to referral). It will equip you with specific knowledge considering a biopsychosocial approach and the principles of harm minimisation. The unit covers an understanding of addiction of licit and illicit substances, current debates around drug use, the main organisations in the AOD sector in Australia, the biopshychosocial impact of drug misuse in distinct client groups, evidence-based assessment and interventions in different stages of behavioural change.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Explain what is a drug and addictive behaviour as well as differentiate between types of drugs, their effects and presentations.
2. Analyse the historical and contextual use of drugs, contrast and critically analyse distinct policies nationally and internationally.
3. Explain and apply the social work framework stages of change to construct intervention plans, case management and referrals.
4. Compare and contrast different interventions applying the concepts of harm minimisation, relapse prevention, client’s self-determination and strengths-based approach.
5. Justify potential psychosocial interventions distinguishing the different client groups and stages of change.

Workload

This is an online unit offered over an intensive period of 8 weeks for both on campus and off campus students. The workload requirements and contact hours will reflect the MNHS Online Teacher Engagement Business Process. You will be expected to watch 1 x 2-hour prerecorded lecture and 1 x 1.5-hour tutorial per week, and to spend up to 12 hours each week in self-directed study related to the unit content.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.