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Tennessee State University Social Work Program
3500 John A. Merritt Blvd. Jane Elliot Hall (Women’s Building)
Nashville, Tennessee 37209-1561 3rd Floor, Room 310
* Prerequisite: SOWK 2010, 2100, PSYC 3510*
Prof. Delores Butler, LAPSW Office Hours: As Posted
Assistant Professor Office Location: WB 305
Office Phone: 963-7666
TEXT: Kirst-Ashman, K. & Hull, G. H. Jr. (2012). Understanding generalist practice:
Empowerment series (6th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.
Cournoyer, B. (2011). The social work skills workbook (6th ed.). International:
Brooks/Cole Publishing.
I. Course Description:
The practice content is to provide a comprehensive study of the general problem-solving method used in generalist social work practice with clients systems of various sizes
including individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations.
This practice perspective serves diverse client systems and is not confined by a narrow
cadre of theories, rather it is versatile enough to allow problems and situations to
determine the practice approach.
Generalist practice employs a problem solving framework and a broad knowledge, value,
and skill base which demands ethical practice and on-going self-assessment. Practice
related skills needed in the problem-solving process i.e. empathetic communication,
Interviewing and recording skills and related concepts will be introduced. This course
attempts to prepare practitioners who will be competent in providing generalist services
in urban settings with client systems of all sizes. This course will focus on individuals,
families, and small groups.
II. Goal:
To prepare students for all five social work competencies related to practice content with
systems of all sizes. The focus shall be individuals, families and small groups.
Definition of Generalist Practice
Generalist social work practitioners utilizes a problem identification problem solving
process consisting of an eclectic body of knowledge, skills and professional values in
order to intervene for planned change with individuals, families, groups, organizations
and communities.
Generalist practitioners view clients and client systems from a strengths perspective in
order to recognize, support, and build upon the innate capabilities of all human beings. In
addition, generalist practitioners evaluate service outcomes in order to continually
improve the provision and quality of service most appropriate to client needs.
III. Course Objectives
1. To understand the values perspectives of social work including the significance of
that perspective, in terms of the Curriculum Policy Statement of CSWE and the
NASW Code of Ethics; program objectives # 1, 2 &3
2. To conceptualize the person in environment, purpose, objectives, roles an
processes of social work and of the generalist perspective and the practice of
social work in particular; program objective # 2, & 7
3. To become familiar with the systems theory and foundations for critical thinking;
program objective #10.
4. To demonstrate the problem solving process with diverse populations and populations at-risk; program objective # 6.
5. To describe and identify the elements of professional social work values for
preparing students with appropriate attitudes and values for professional entry
level practice; program objectives # 1 & 5.
6. To demonstrate competence, through laboratory experiences, for the following problem-solving techniques and tasks as related to practice with individuals
families and groups: (program obj. #1)
A. Engagement- establishing the client-worker relationship
B. Assessment – person, problem and situation
C. Planning – establishing goals specify objectives and formalize a contract.
D. Implementation – carrying out the intervention plan
E. Evaluation – determining whether a given change effort was worthwhile.
F. Termination and follow-up – knowledge and skills needed to effectively conclude the worker-client relationship.
7. To review in depth social work values, ethical responsibility related to clients,
Colleagues, the practice setting, as professionals, to the profession and to the
Broader society; program objective # 4
8. To develop commitment in several value concepts, including affirmation of
Dignity and self-worth of the individual, affirmation of uniqueness and
Individuality, affirmation of client problem-solving capacity, client self-
determination, advocacy, empowerment etc.
9. To write a self- analysis of one’s motive for choosing social work as a
Profession and how those motives are consistent with the values,
Knowledge and skills of social work as learned thus far. Also, to
analyze one’s strengths and weaknesses for a career in social work,
including sensitivity to cultural diversity.
10. To understand the strengths perspective: philosophy and principles.
To prepare to practice with an understanding of discrimination, oppression
and strategies for change, promoting social and economic justice for all
people, especially for populations-at-risk; program obj. # 2.
IV. GRADES
Grades will be based on quality of required assignments.
10% Attendance and Participation Possible 10 pts
15% Written Assignment I (Contracted Plan) Possible 15 pts
15% Written Assignment II (3 Experiential reports) Possible 15 pts
30% Written Assignment III (Social History) Possible 30 pts
20% Final Exam Case Analysis Possible 20 pts
10% Case Analyses Exercises in class Possible 10 pts
A= 90 – 100 pts (Excellent)
B= 80 – 89 pts (Good)
C= 70- 79 pts (Acceptance)
D= 60- 69 pts (Passing)
F= 59 or less (Failing)
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECTS
PAPERS THAT DO NOT FOLLOW THE POSTED GUIDELINES WILL EARN A FAILING GRADE. Students must make every effort to follow the guidelines posted and ethical practice to ensure that the assignments completed are accepted. Adherence to guidelines includes APA writing guidelines, posted rubrics, and common university practice (e.g. typing papers, etc.).
Present assignments typed and in APA format; and
- Make sure that all assignments and exams reflect only your own original work and any citations are credited with academic integrity.
Collegiality:
Students are expected to engage in classroom activities with energy, respect for other student’s views, and honesty. There will be many opportunities to interact with other students, and these interactions are opportunities for you to learn to disagree, argue, and analyze problems in a civil and productive manner. Intolerance will not be tolerated in this course, regardless of its basis. Students will never be required to hold a specific view, but they will be required to consider the merits and the pitfalls of all views discussed in class. Realize that you should never try to criticize a view that you do not fully understand and cannot describe adequately. In this course, you will be required to know what you are arguing against, as well as what you are arguing for.
*A RUBIC WILL BE USED TO EVALUATE PARTICIPATION AND ASSIGNMENTS.
PROFESSIONAL EXPECTATIONS SYLLABUS VERSION w/ Student Expectations
All students are expected to demonstrate the following:
Expectation / Definition1. / Identify as a professional social worker / As students, you can expect to have your current knowledge, skills, and values challenged as you learn and wrestle with professional social work knowledge, skills, and values in the development of a professional social work identity.
2. / Demonstrate a Proactive Commitment to Learning / As a student, you are expected to take time to review the syllabus and workload of the course to make a self-assessment to your abilities to fulfill the course requirements. As needed, you should request additional information about assignments or grading procedures. Faculty may respond to your request individually or as a group, in class or out of class time. If you recognize a conflict between due dates in the course and your personal responsibilities, notify your professor immediately to problem-solve and negotiate a resolution.
3. / Utilize Resources and Feedback with Efficacy / As a student, you are expected to identify and communicate concerns you have and to seek out help. Likewise, as a student, you need to be open to feedback by the faculty on your work and professional behaviors and be willing to effectively use and integrate that feedback into future work and your understanding of professional social work behaviors. If you are unable to contact a professor or other support resource, be sure to take note of the time, date, mode of contact to record a concrete timeline of events. This will help us improve the system of support so that it better responds to your needs.
4. / Communicate Effectively with respect and cultural competence / Students are expected to develop communication and language that does not attack individuals for beliefs, but engages in dialogue concerning substantive issues, demonstrates critical thinking, and is supported by a rationale and evidence.
5. / Apply Problem Solving and Critical Thinking Skills / Students are expected to ask questions in a way that demonstrates your knowledge and your thought process. In asking questions, students may adopt the following manner: “I understand that this is… but I don’t see how this relates to that?” or “May I have a point of clarity?”
6. / Demonstrate Self-Awareness and Ethical Conduct / Students are expected to embrace the idea that you represent the social work profession when you are in the community and working with our partner agencies. You are also expected to take time to become familiar with the NASW Code of Ethics. You will, also, need to set time aside to reflect on, to integrate, and to assess your learning about and understanding of ethical decision making.
7. / Manage a Healthy & Balanced Lifestyle effectively Managing Stress / Students are expected to take advantage of the multitude of resources available during matriculation. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to someone and seek out help.
IX. CONSULTATION
Office hours are posted on the door of the instructor. Please feel free to make an
appointment if you need to see me outside of class if office hours does not work for you.
X. Instructional Approaches
The course will be conducted in seminar form. The primary teaching method is didactic
and discussion. Students are expected o read extensively and to exercise self-directed
learning in order to familiarize themselves with the social work practice literature. A
variety of methods will be utilized to enhance learning. These include peer learning and
teaching in small groups, role play, case studies, and use of media.
XI. Recommended Reading:
Miley, K. K., O’Melia, M., & DuBois, B. (2009). Generalist practice social work practice:
An empowering approach (6th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson/Allyn & Bacon.
Journals
Family Social Work
Journal of Clinical Social Work
Journal of Social Issues
Advances in Social Work
Social Service Review
Social Work
Social Work Education
Journal of Women and Social Work
Ethnic & Cultural Diversity in Social Work
Journal of Gay & Lesbian
Social Service issues in practice, policy, & research
XII. WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS
1. Five-year Contracted Plan on self
2. Three Experiential Reports
3. Social History (Self-Portrait)
4. Case Analysis (Final Exam)
.
XIII. EXAMS
The instructor reserves the right to administer examinations.
The instructor may use testing techniques (including
unannounced quizzes).
Course Outline
Assigned readings: Text, Chapters 1, 2, & 5, Review Cournoyer, Chapters 1&2
Discussion guide: 1. Definitions of Generalist Practice
2. The Generalist Intervention Model
3. Critical Thinking
4. Working with individuals
5. Interviewing: A key Micro Skill
6. Challenges in Interviewing
7. Engagement and Assessment
8. Highlights: Be Alert, Streetwise, & Safe,
Format for Analyzing a Community.
Using Micro Skills in Multiple Roles
Interviewing Practice & Analysis
Assigned readings: Text, Chapters 3, 4 & 12 Workbook: Cournoyer, Chapters 3&4
Assigned readings: Text, Chapters 3, 6, & 7
Discussion guide: A. Working with groups
1. Benefits of groups
2. Types of groups
3. Professional roles in groups
4. Conceptual Frameworks and Group Dynamics
5. Critical Thinking and Groups
6. Intervention Skills for Task & Treatment Groups
B. Planning in Generalist Practice
1. Steps in the planning process
2. Planning in Mezzo Practice
3. Planning in Macro Practice
C. Implementation Applications
1. Child Maltreatment and Protective Services
2. Crisis Intervention
3. Practice issues with diverse groups
4. Alcohol and other Substance Abuse
DEVELOP A FIVE YEAR CONTRACTED PLAN ON SELF Due Date:
Assigned readings: Text, Chapters 11 & Review Cournoyer, Chapters 5 & 6
Discussion guide: 1. Examination of NASW Code of Ethics
2. Canadian Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics
3. International Ethical Principles
4. Conceptualizing and Addressing an Ethical Dilemma: Decision-
Making Steps.
5. Ranking Ethical Principles: Dolgoff, Lowenberg, and Harrington’s
Ethical Principle Screen.
Assigned readings: Text, Chapters 10, 12 & 13 and excerpts from Saleebey, D.,
The Strength Perspective in Social Work Practice
Discussion guide: 1. People of color
2. Women
3. Gay and Lesbian
4. Age, Class, Religion
5. Ethnicity & Culture
6. Physical or Mental Ability
7. Strength based approach in working with families
8. Approaches to implementing family intervention
9. Work with multiproblem families
10. Family Preservation
Module 5: Social and Economic Justice
Assigned readings: Text, Chapters, 14
Discussion guide: 1. Consequences of discrimination
2. Economic deprivation and effects
3. Identifying oppression
4. What does “Fair” mean?
Assigned readings: Chapter, 13 and Fong, R., & Furuto, S. Culturally Competent Practice
Skills, Interventions, and Evaluations
Discussion guide: 1. General Experiences in the U.S.
2. How issues influence the planned change processes
3. Effective tools for working with ethnically & racially different
groups
4. Values and ethics in Social Work Practice with different ethnic
Groups.
5. Culturally Competent Practice
6. Exploring Values and Ethics of African Americans, Latinos, First Nations People, and Asians Americans with Muslim case examples.
______
Assignment: Develop a Social History on yourself writing in the third person. The outline found in the Social Work Skills Workbook should be followed. The professional ethical code pertaining to Confidentiality will be evoked.
Due Date:
______
Experiential/Reflective Assignment
The experiential/reflective assignment is designed so that you can have some experience
with resources relating to social work practice outside of the classroom setting. After
completing the assignments, hopefully you will have gained some new knowledge and
perhaps guidance in choosing the areas of social work practice in which you want to do a
field practicum.
Student will choose 3 experiences in which to participate and write a brief paper about
the experience. The papers are to be 2-3 pages in length, must be typewritten, and APA