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Class Descriptions

Social Change Theories

SW611

Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
Faculty Approval Date: 09/03/2014

Course Description

This course will review theories and research from the social sciences on social change, focusing especially at the societal level. Theories of social conflict, interest groups, and social movements, and such processes as consciousness-raising will be covered. Dynamics of the diffusion of innovations in society will also be addressed. Examples will be drawn from areas of practice in which social workers are involved, such as mental health and chemical dependency, child and family welfare, civil rights, health care, and consumer protection.

Objectives

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

1. Describe, compare, and contrast several types of theories about social change. (Practice Behaviors 7.IP, 7.SPE, 7.CO, 7.MHS)
2. Identify theories relevant to particular goal and problem areas, and critique their strengths and limitations. (Practice Behaviors 7.IP, 7.SPE, 7.CO, 7.MHS)
3. Critique different theories as to their assumptions, origins, relevance for different social problems, and relevance for marginalized and oppressed groups inclusive of a broad range of intersecting diversity dimensions. (Practice Behaviors 4.IP, 4.SPE, 4.CO, 4.MHS, 5.IP, 5.SPE, 5.CO, 5.MHS)
4. Apply particular theories to different areas of practice. (Practice Behaviors 7.IP, 7.SPE, 7.CO, 7.MHS)
5. Discuss typical ethical concerns related to social change theories. (Practice Behaviors 2.IP, 2.SPE, 2.CO, 2.MHS)

Design

This course may use a variety of pedagogical strategies, including readings, class exercises, case studies, and debates. Students will focus on cognitive and analytic tasks, skills in the use and application of theory, and identifying underlying value and attitudinal issues related to particular theories.

Intensive Focus on Privilege, Oppression, Diversity and Social Justice (PODS)

This course integrates PODS content and skills with a special emphasis on the identification of theories, practice and/or policies that promote social justice, illuminate injustices and are consistent with scientific and professional knowledge. Through the use of a variety of instructional methods, this course will support students developing a vision of social justice, learn to recognize and reduce mechanisms that support oppression and injustice, work toward social justice processes, apply intersectionality and intercultural frameworks and strengthen critical consciousness, self knowledge and self awareness to facilitate PODS learning.

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