Program Overview

Introduction to Community and Social Work Practice Unit

Overview

The Introduction to Community and Social Work Practice unit, coded as HGW111, is designed to introduce students to the foundations of social work practice in human service organizations. This unit aims to develop critical analytical skills to explore inequalities of power and privilege using an intersectional lens. Through this examination, students will be able to clarify the role of social work in promoting inclusivity, social justice, and human rights.

Unit Details

• Unit Name: Introduction to Community and Social Work Practice
• Unit Code: HGW111
• Credit Points: 12.5
• College/School: Health
• Discipline: Social Work
• Coordinator: Doctor Bethany Wilkinson
• Available as an Elective: Yes
• Level: Introductory

Availability

• Location: Online
• Study Period: Semester 1
• Attendance Options: Online

Key Dates

• Start Date: 23/2/2026
• Census Date: 17/3/2026
• WW Date: 20/4/2026
• End Date: 14/6/2026

Learning Outcomes

• Illustrate the role and value of micro, meso, and macro responses to contemporary social justice and human rights issues using contemporary case scenarios.
• Use critical theories and critical analytical skills to reveal how historical and current inequalities of power and privilege are constructed.
• Identify personal beliefs and values and consider their impact for social work practice by using critical reflection skills.
• Examine how community and social work is shaped and constrained by key national and international contexts and discourses by collaborating with others.

Fee Information

• Field of Education:
• Commencing Student Contribution: $1,192.00
• Grandfathered Student Contribution: $1,192.00
• Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution: Not applicable
• Domestic Full Fee: $2,919.00

Requisites

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as HGW101.

Teaching

• Teaching Pattern: One hour weekly online learning, three hours weekly independent self-directed learning.
• Assessment:
  • Respectful online discussion of a social issue and participation in discussions (20%)
  • Journal of learning provocations (40%)
  • Presentation of social work practice challenges (40%)
• Textbooks: All readings will be available via the unit's Reading List.

Note

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities as appropriate.