Course overview
This course will enable students to analyse approaches to group work and to develop the leadership and membership skills required for professional practice in social work and human services. Students will engage in practice-based learning in order to develop their skills in facilitating groups. They will develop understanding of different approaches to and purposes of group work, the typology of groups, group dynamics and the stages of group development. They will apply knowledge of leadership theories, roles and skills. Students will learn how to plan a group, work with diversity, manage conflict and evaluate the effectiveness of a group. This knowledge will be applied to working in different contexts and with a range of clients. They will also consider the use of information and computer technology in facilitating groups. Students will be required to demonstrate self-awareness by critically reflecting on their leadership and membership skills.
Course learning outcomes
- Apply knowledge of different approaches to and purposes of group work, the typology of groups, group dynamics and the stages of group development
- Apply knowledge of leadership theories, roles and skills
- Display group leadership skills
- Apply basic skills in working with diversity, managing conflict, using technology in facilitating a group and evaluating the effectiveness of a group
- Contribute as a group member
- Demonstrate self-awareness and the ability to critically reflect on leadership and membership skills