Prerequisites for Module
None, in addition to SD3 entry requirements.
Corequisite Modules
None.
Precluded Modules
None.
Aims of Module
To enable the student to engage in a comparative evaluation of how social work services are delivered within a range of countries and apply research and evaluation skills. To apply research and evaluation skills.
Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
| 1. |
Engage in a comparative evaluation of relevant political and social policy contexts within a range of countries and understand their impact on the delivery of social work services.
|
| 2. |
Compare and evaluate the ways in which the social work needs of specific user groups are met within a range of countries.
|
| 3. |
Demonstrate a critical awareness of basic research methodology on social science and social work.
|
| 4. |
Apply research findings to social work practice and evaluation.
|
Indicative Module Content
Relevant Political and Social Policy context in Europe and USA. A comparison of European and American Welfare models. The organisational contexts and service delivery systems for social work services in a range of countries. Comparison between the American and British experience of Care Management. Consideration of the Italian experience of psychiatric hospital closure. Swedish, Dutch, UK comparison of approaches to drug misuse. A comparison of the financing and delivery of services to older people within Europe. Introduction to the nature and value of research. Overview of qualitative and quantitative research methodology. Applications of research and evaluation to social work practice. Advanced literature searching and research evaluation. Research and evidence based practice.
| Indicative Student Workload
Contact Hours
| Distance Learning | Lectures
| 8 | Tutorials
| 2 |
Private Study
| | Private Study
| 140 |
Mode of Delivery
Introductory lectures, independent private study re-inforced by tutorial contact.
Assessment Plan
|
Learning Outcomes Assessed
| | Coursework | 1,2
| | Coursework | 3,4
|
The Research Critique assesses Learning Outcomes 3 and 4.
The Essay assesses Learning Outcomes 1 and 2.
Indicative Bibliography
| 1. | Cochrane, J Clark, J (Eds) (1995) Comparing Welfare States Britain in International Context SAGE.
| | 2. | Ramon, S (1996) Mental Health in Europe, Pluto Press.
| | 3. | Cannan, C et al (1992) Social Work in Europe, Macmillan.
| | 4. | Denscombe, M (1998) Good Research Guide, Open University Press.
| | 5. | Blaxter, L (1998) How to Research, Open University Press.
|
|