307447 (v.1) Working with Groups as Communities 513

Area:

Department of Social Work and Social Policy

Credits:

25.0

Contact Hours:

2.0

Workshop:

2 x 12 Hours Once-only

Syllabus:

This course is divided into two weekends and will examine therapeutic small group work and social action groups. The first weekend covers the history, theories and practices of small group work, with group planning and the role of the facilitator given prominence. The class simulates a group and creative approaches to ways of working are encouraged. The second weekend invites students to reconsider group facilitation in the light of current social theories and to discuss how this might affect the position and practice of the facilitator and blur the boundaries stipulated in traditional group work. This weekend introduces ideas of caucusing, consulting and reflecting teams as ways of deconstructing power and hearing the voice of the 'expert participant'.

Unit Outcomes:

Upon completion of this unit students will have - Gained an appreciation of group work through participation and understanding of group stages from pre planning to evaluation. Gained awareness of group dynamics, the need for reflection at all stages and levels and the varying roles played by the group facillitator. Gained a sensitivity to appropriate combinations of groups and participants. Explored different skills for progressing group purpose and ideas in designing their own client groups.

Text and references listed above are for your information only and current as of September 30, 2003. Please check with the unit coordinator for up-to-date information.

Unit References:

Benjamin, J., Bessant, J and Watts, R (1997), Making Groups Work: Rethinking Practice. Allen and Unwin, Sydney. Brown, N. (1996), Expressive Processes in Group Counselling. Praeger, Westport. Bundey, C., et al. A Manual About Group Leadership and A Resource for Group Leaders. State Health Publication, NSW. Clarke, J.I. (1984) Who, Me Lead A Group? Winston Press, Minnesota. Corey, G and Corey (1997), The Theory and Practice of Group Counselling, 5th ed. Brooks and Cole, California. Doel, M. and Sawdon, C. (1999), The Essential Group Worker. Jessica Kingsley, London. Douglas, T., Johnson, D. and Johnson, F. Joining Together Group Theory and Group Skills. Prentice Hall. Parry, J.K., ed. (1997), From Prevention To Wellness (Through Group Work). Whitaker, D. (1985), Using Groups to Help People. Routledge, London.

Unit Texts:

No prescribed texts.

Unit Assessment Breakdown:

Papers 70%. Forum 30%. Participation in 80% of the workshop is required to pass this unit.This is by grade/mark assessment.

Year	Location	Period	Internal	Area External	Central External
2004	Bentley Campus	Semester 1	Y