Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Social work is a vehicle for achieving human rights and social justice. This unit introduces students to the principles and key features of human rights and social justice approaches. Attention will be given to civil rights and the right to social welfare. The philosophical and theoretical basis of social injustice will be explored. The unit will also delve into the challenges faced in the realm of human rights by unpacking the social injustices: “The Isms” (racism, elitism, sexism, heterosexism, ageism and ableism). An appraisal of national and international policies, protocols, and frameworks that aim to promote human rights and social justice will be discussed. Additionally, the unit will evaluate the role of social workers in addressing human rights violations and promoting social justice. Students will also reflect on how a human rights-based framework can be applied in different contexts.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2OnlineOnline timetabled
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 core unit in the Social Work major sequence
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) conceptualise and contextualise social justice and human rights.; (2) compare and contrast social injustices such as racism, sexism, elitism, ageism, heterosexism and ableism; (3) examine the vulnerable groups that can benefit from the application of human rights and social justice frameworks; (4) demonstrate understanding the philosophical, sociological, and psychological bases of social injustice; (5) analyse the implications of injustice for social work practice in different contexts and situations; and (6) appraise the role of social workers in promoting human rights and social justice.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) group presentation; (2) essay; (3) critical reflection; and (4) professional behaviour. Further information is available in the unit outline.

To pass this unit, a student must: (a) achieve an overall mark of 50 per cent or higher for the unit; and (b) achieve the requisite requirements(s) or a mark of 50 per cent or greater, whichever is higher and specified in the unit outline, for the professional behaviour component.

Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Sipho Sibanda
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.