Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) Introduction to Social Work Methods Syllabus - Mumbai University

About this course

This course is designed to provide foundational knowledge and orientation to students entering the field of social work. It introduces learners to the core values, ethics, and principles that define the social work profession. The course emphasizes the significance of both primary (direct) and secondary (indirect) methods of practice, helping students to understand their application in real-world settings. Through this course, learners will gain insight into various intervention techniques and the professional roles of social workers, preparing them for effective participation in fieldwork practicum.

Course objectives

• Introduce the learner to core principles of the social work profession and their relevance in addressing individual and societal needs.
• Describe the role of social work as a profession and its relevance in contemporary society.
• Develop foundational intervention skills applicable in various social work settings, including work with individuals, families, groups, and communities.
• Distinguish primary (direct) and secondary (indirect) methods of social work and understand their application in fieldwork and professional practice

Learning outcomes

• CO 1 Demonstrate proficiency in applying basic intervention skills across diverse social work settings, including individual, family, group, and community contexts.
• CO 2 Apply and uphold core Social Work Principles in both practical and theoretical scenarios, reflecting professional ethics and values.
• CO 3 Discuss the direct practice methods with individuals, families, groups, and communities, recognizing their significance and appropriate intervention strategies.
• CO 4 Elaborate the role of indirect methods- including research, administration, and social action-in enhancing the effectiveness of direct social work interventions across various settings.

Unit I: Social Work Profession and Principles

• Definition and meaning of Social Work
• Goals of social work: promoting social change, problem- solving, and empowerment
• Origins of social work: from charity to profession- Global and Indian context
• Principles of Social Work: Acceptance, Individualization, Self- determination, Confidentiality, Controlled emotional involvement, non- judgmental attitude, Purposeful expression of feelings, Client participation and empowerment

Essential readings

• Devi, R., & Prakash, R. (2000). Social Work Practice, Jaipur: Mangal Deep Publications.
• Dubois, B., Miley, K.K. Third Edition (2008). Social Work – An Empowering Profession. London: Allyn and Bacon.
• Y. Ronald, S. Malar, P.V. Laavanya. (2013). Social Work: An Introductory Text Book. Regal Publications, New Delhi

Unit II: Orientation to Primary and Secondary Methods of Social Work

• Direct Social work practice with:
• Individuals
• Families
• Social groups
• Community Indirect practice:
• Administration
• Research
• Social Advocacy/ action
• Professional Roles and Functions of Social Workers:
• Enabler, advocate, broker, mediator, educator, facilitator, researcher
• Interdisciplinary collaboration and teamwork in various settings

Essential readings

• Sheafor, B.W., Horejsi, C. (1997). Techniques and Guidelines for Social Work. (4th edition). London: Allyn and Bacon.
• Stepney, P., & Thompson, N. (2018). Social work theory and methods- the essentials.
• Sheeja, K., Kimura, M., & Paul, N. (2022). Best Practices of Social Work Methods: Contextual Examples & Reflections from the Field