DA4091 - Social Context and Theory

This module will employ a variety of engaging teaching and learning methods to cater to diverse learning styles and maximise apprentice engagement. Through lectures and combined seminars, apprentices will be introduced to key concepts and theoretical frameworks, where discussion, debate and critical analysis of social issues will be facilitated. Apprentices will also have the opportunity to develop practical skills in essential areas of communication and critical reflection. An important skill will be to link what is done in class to the work context, and apprentices will be encouraged to link the theoretical knowledge to their work environments and hear from social work practitioners about their experiences in diverse contexts. Apprentices will be encouraged to conduct research, explore additional resources, and develop their critical and analytical thinking skills.

Tutors will support apprentices learning through a variety of ways in this module. They will provide a programme of lectures which relate to the learning outcomes for the module; these lectures will make connections between theory, policy and practice, as they also will be expected to do. Additionally, apprentices will have opportunities to work in small groups where they will reflect on and discuss lecture content, and any insights gained. Contact details for all tutors for this module are available in the module handbook and via the eLP.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding (K&U):

K&U 1
Critically evaluate how social, economic, and political environments affect individuals, families, and communities, recognizing the importance of social justice and equity (K3).

K&U 2
Explore diverse social work contexts nationally and internationally, including migration, refugee support, and the impact of climate change on social policies. Identify and explain various theoretical frameworks for human behaviour and development, and their application in social work

Intellectual/Professional skills & abilities (IPSA):

IPSA 1
Develop foundational communication skills for effective interaction with diverse populations in various social work settings. Begin cultivating critical reflection skills to analyse personal experiences and decision-making in social work.

IPSA 2
Start building skills for integrating service-user perspectives into planning and delivering social work services.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

PVA 1
Begin to embody cultural humility and inclusivity in practice. Initiate applying ethical decision-making principles in social work contexts. Develop a nascent understanding of promoting social justice within the social work profession. Initiate incorporating values into social work decision-making processes.

For the formative assessment, apprentices will Present an interactive case study where apprentices analyse a social work scenario involving ethical dilemmas and diverse client backgrounds.




For the summative assessment, apprentices will complete one of three tasks:
• Task 1: A storyboard depicting a social worker navigating a complex ethical situation with a service user.
• Task 2: A short video raising awareness about a social justice issue impacting social work practice.
• Task 3: Apprentices will create a digital story presenting the challenges and needs of the chosen population from a user's perspective.

None

DA4088, DA4089, DA4092, DA4093

This first-year module equips social work apprentices with a foundational understanding of the complex social, economic, and political landscapes that shape their practice. Apprentices explore the roles and ethical considerations of social workers, alongside key legal frameworks impacting their work. The module examines how social determinants affect individuals, families, and communities, emphasising social justice and equity. Diverse social work contexts are explored, including migration and climate change. Apprentices develop critical thinking skills by analysing research methodologies and applying theoretical frameworks for human behaviour and development. Core skills are fostered, including communication, critical reflection, integrating user perspectives, and problem-solving. The module introduces essential social work values, such as cultural humility, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to lifelong learning.