SWK-40091 - Module Specification
School of Medicine
Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

The module will introduce students to the values of social work, and its professional standards (Social Work England and British Association of Social Work). Students will develop their critical understanding of how the historical context of the profession has helped to shape Social Work values, and its ethical foundation. It explores how ethical frameworks are embedded into social work practice and codes of conduct. Students will also explore their own personal values and where these have come from (primary and secondary socialisation) and these are then applied to wider cultural and structural contexts (such as language in law). The module will also introduce students to the wider context of Social Work, taking account of the structural and cultural factors that create and maintain social division, inequality and disadvantage. Students will explore intersectionality and the power dynamics that contribute to divisions within society

The module aims to enhance the students¿ evidence-based knowledge and analytical skills in understanding how the historical and contemporary context of social policy, social work ethics and values, along with underlying philosophies, have shaped contemporary codes of practice and their impact on professional practice. There will be an introduction to the wider context of Social Work, and students will also explore inequality, disadvantage and the power structures that maintain social divisions within society.

Intended Learning Outcomes

critique the historical development of social work ethics and values and their underlying philosophies which have shaped contemporary 'codes of practice' and other statements of values and ethics: 1
critically reflect on and evaluate the impact of our own personal values and/or social policies on social work practice: 1
Critically analyse the role of Social Work in a diverse society, with particular references to concepts such as prejudice, structural discrimination, empowerment and anti discriminatory practice: 1
Critically evaluate the processes which contribute to social difference, inequality and differential need faced by service users: 2
Through critical discussion, demonstrate an appreciation of social and legal processes that lead to marginalisation, isolation and exclusion and the power structures that create and maintain social divisions in society: 2

Study hours

Active learning hours:
In situ
20 hours of lectures
5 hours of workshops for assessment
10 hours of seminars
Remote, asynchronous independent study:
40 hours Preparation for scheduled teaching.
35 hours assessment preparation
40 hours wider reading (beyond the essential components of the module reading list and beyond, in order to further own learning and interests in relevant areas).

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment