SWM5133 · The Australian welfare state and social policy

Overview

In this unit you will be introduced to the concept of the modern welfare state and its critics including the ideological positions of the major Australian political parties. You will learn how to apply a critical lens to the examination of key theories and ideological perspectives in social policy, the link between social policy and the goals and actions of social work, the impact of social structure and social policy on welfare service users and the implementation of social policy interventions in everyday social work practice. You will also have the opportunity to critically examine the role, strategies and effectiveness of advocacy groups in social policy debates and the link between local and global welfare trends.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

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. Critically evaluate the link between social work goals and values and social policy analysis and advocacy
2. Explore to what extent the provision of formal social rights within developed welfare states enhances social justice for disadvantaged groups with a particular emphasis upon Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
3. Apply an analytical framework to the evaluation of social policy that accounts for different theoretical and practical points of view
4. Compare and contrast the way political parties deal with social policy issues, and evaluate the key trends and philosophies underlying the positions of major Australian political parties
5. Appraise the impact of social structures and social policies on social welfare users
6. Examine the impact of global welfare trends on local social policy debates

Workload

6 hours of teacher directed study per week, including a 2 hour seminar/lecture. The remaining 4 hours involve directed readings and class preparation, along with guided reflection and consolidation activities. 6 hours per week of self-directed study. Off campus attendance requirements: mandatory 2 day on-campus workshops

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