Course introduces students to the historical roots of the social work profession and social welfare.
The social systems perspective is discussed as the framework for social work knowledge, values, and skills, and an understanding of professional values, ethics, the fields of practice, and settings of social work. The profession's commitment to the disadvantaged, social justice, diversity, and discriminated and oppressed populations is included as course content. Presentations by social work professionals, including alumni, from different fields of practice will supplement classroom discussion. Emphasis on experiential learning of the biological, psychological, social, and cultural influences on the behavior of those who need and those who give help. Students examine their own behavioral and learning patterns, values, and attitudes to increase their ability to understand and help clients.