Module SOCI43030: Professional and Personal Development (Social Work)

Department: Applied Social Sciences

SOCI43030: Professional and Personal Development (Social Work)

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• The module will provide an opportunity for the students to:
• Develop a critical understanding of the concept of professional development and use this in applying and integrating learning from the discrete elements of their professional programme.
• critically examine theoretical perspectives on current practice in their profession including principles and values, professional ethics and professionalism, anti-racist , anti-oppressive and empowering practice;
• develop a critical understanding of reflection and reflexivity, and skills in reflective writing, and reflective practice;
• explore their own identity and values, and identify professional and personal development needs;
• explore the nature of the professional relationship, developing understanding and skills in one-to-one communication and groupwork;
• practice a range of professional skills within a classroom environment through practical exercises and case studies;

Content

• The module is delivered through:
• 1. core teaching undertaken together with students on the MA Community and Youth Work • covering generic aspects of professional and personal development: • The influence of academic disciplines on the social professions • Professionalism • Ethics and Values • Communication Skills • Diversity/cultural diversity • Interprofessional working • Critical Thinking/critical reflection/reflective writing • Critical practice • Report writing/accountability
• 2. Workshops focussing on the practical development of skills for professional social work including: observation and communication skills, assessment and report writing skills and dealing with challenging circumstances in practice,
• 3. Tutorials focussing on the integration of theory and practice through critical self reflection in preparation for professional social work practice outlined in the Professional Capabilities Framework that outlines the roles and professional expectations for social workers.

Learning Outcomes

• be familiar with the range of settings in which community and youth work is practised;
• have developed a critical understanding of the nature of professional practice, including professional values and responsibilities, within a social science theoretical framework;
• have developed knowledge and understanding in an area of special professional interest.

• be able to assess reflectively and critically the relevance of their current professional practice experience to the requirements of social work settings.

• be able critically to reflect on their personal values, experiences, knowledge, skills and professional practice;
• have developed skills in communication to support (i) engagement, assessment planning, intervention and evaluation, and (ii) accurate recording and preparation of reports.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Teaching and Learning Methods will include individual and group tutorials, group discussion, practical exercises (e.g. role plays, simulation, drama, use of visual arts), study groups, case studies, reflective recordings, independent reading, field visits.
• Core teaching will take place together with Community and Youth Work students facilitating interprofessional learning
• Assessment will include a practical exercise to demonstrate the necessary skills in readiness for direct practice and a 3000 word critical reflection on the process of developing professional and personal skills.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

There is no formal formative assessment, however students receive regular feedback on communication skills through group work and following the interim summative 'readiness for direct practice' exercise.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University