Prac II: Spec ScWk with Groups

Prerequisite: Matriculation in the MSW program; and SCWK 530 or as an Advanced Standing student; must be taken concurrently with SCWK 591; or consent of program coordinator This course is designed to provide students with specialized knowledge, skills, ethical principles and theories used in the application of strength-based, culturally competent practice with treatment groups as well as task groups in organizations and diverse community settings. Throughout the semester, attention is given to effective leadership, critical thinking, as well as the examination of power dynamics and roles in groups. Social justice, social consciousness and responsible application of principles of cross-cultural communication will be highlighted. Students will develop skills in how to design, develop and conduct treatment groups and task groups working with people from diverse social locations. Students will learn engagement, assessment, conceptualization, goal setting, intervention and evaluation skills for group work that addresses the needs, resilience, and empowerment of individuals and groups across cultures, generations and communities. Student learning is supported by assigned course readings and class discussions. During this course, students will practice the skills of effective, culturally competent specialized group work through participation in simulated group experiences.