Class Descriptions

Intervention in Human Service Organizations and Social Service Networks

SW813

Course Description

This course provides a critical examination of strategies of change within human service organizations and in networks of organizations in terms of their effects on effectiveness, efficiency, and responsiveness to the needs of vulnerable populations. Theories and research on organizations—specifically organization‐environment relations, organization‐client relations, structure, organizational change and innovation, and inter‐organizational analysis and change—will be applied to the formulation of intervention and change strategies. The effects of current structuring of service delivery systems on
accessibility, comprehensiveness, continuity, fairness, quality, and effectiveness of care, with special emphasis on populations vulnerable through their gender or ethnicity, will be detailed. Models and empirical studies of change within organizations and in networks of organizations aimed at improving the delivery of services will be analyzed and research issues and knowledge gaps will be identified. Relevant ethical and value issues will be examined.