Comparative Social Policy Development and Leadership module (SW52009)

Social policy (in relation to social work) involves the creation and implementation of laws and programs to address societal issues, promoting well-being and equality among vulnerable and marginalized populations.

This module will explore the development and implementation of social policy in relation to social work theory and practice in local and global contexts.

Topics covered in this module include:

• poverty and inequality
• Scottish policy context
• disability
• colonialism
• human rights
• race and gender
• global emergencies
• leadership
• co-production

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• explore the role of the social work in the development and delivery of social policy
• analyse social policy development across local and global contexts
• consider the role of social work and social services in global challenges including war, climate change, public emergencies, and forced migration
• identify the role of research and evidence in social policy development
• analyse critically oppressive systems, policies, and cultures
• explore the importance of involving service users and carers in policy development

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• understand social policy development related to social work in Scotland
• identify shared and distinctive global themes in social policy development and social work practice
• relate critically to the role of social work profession and leadership in policy development and implementation
• understand how research and other forms of evidence inform the development of social policy underpinning social work
• develop communication skills and professional confidence in social policy analysis and leadership

Assignments / assessment

• essay 4,000 words (100%)
• formative assignments
  • written work
  • group presentation

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

• face-to-face (campus-based) taught sessions
• group presentations
• self-directed learning

Learning materials will be provided through PowerPoint presentations, videos, images, case studies, discussions, and practice examples.