SWM5115 Foundations for social work practice 1

This unit is designed to equip you with the foundation knowledge and skills for effective social work practice. It establishes the baseline capabilities critical for optimal performance in your first field work placement.

The focus of this unit is on the application of the micro skills known to be common to effective client engagement and therapeutic change. Mastery of beginner level practice competency is built from an understanding of the self and implicit biases, and developing a non -judgemental lens to conceptualise and frame client problems. From this position you will learn how to connect with a broad range of service users with a focus on individuals and families. You will develop the building blocks of a therapeutic alliance that reinforces and reflects collaborative decision making, deep listening, open questioning and reflection in client interactions. Identifying client strengths and seeking feedback will complement this client centred practice toolkit. This unit privileges the ‘doing’ of social work practice through undertaking role plays, case studies and structured simulations in small classes as the platform of learning.