Course description
This course provides an overview of the historical, social, philosophical and political foundations of Canadian child welfare social work. Students will explore the knowledge and skills required to provide effective interventions to families and children. Child protection legislation and policy will be examined, as well as the impact of factors such as gender, class, disability, ethnicity and culture on child welfare issues in society today.
Course content
Course content will be guided by research, empirical knowledge and best practice. The following values and principles, consistent with professional standards, inform course content.
- Child Welfare Social Workers require:
- A critical self-evaluation of personal values and beliefs about child welfare.
- An understanding of relevant systems (e.g. legal, foster care, extended family, community) and an ability to collaborate between systems.
- A working understanding of relevant legislation and policies.
- Knowledge and understanding of diversity in families: e.g., cultural, immigrant, settlement, disability, same-sex, single parent, step and extended.
- Knowledge of attachment theory and the potential impact of trauma and abuse on child development.
- The ability to provide parents with strategies for preventing child maltreatment and promoting family preservation, including community-based activities.
- An understanding of the legacy of colonization is essential in providing culturally appropriate support and services to Aboriginal children and families.
- Systems (family, ecological) and strengths-based perspectives provide comprehensive tools for assessment and intervention in child welfare.
Learning activities
Lecture
Group exercises
Student presentation
Use of multimedia resources
Means of assessment
Examinations
Research papers
Participation.
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course the student wil