THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXASDEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WORKBrenda Sweeten, MSSW, LCSW

Brenda.Sweeten@unt.edu

Introduction to Social Work (SOWK 1450-900, 950)Summer 8W1 2017

Class Time:This course is 100% on-line

Office: Chilton 238DTelephone: 940-369-6991Hours: By appointment

Please note that the instructor for this course has the option to revise or alter the course syllabus at any time as class needs dictate.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course will provide a foundation from which students may develop a critical and analytical approach to issues related to professional social work. As the introductory course in the BSW curriculum, it is anticipated that students will gain a fundamental knowledge base from which they may begin to grow and evolve into beginning generalist social workers. This course, and the accompanying text, will cover the history of social work; various social problems; perspectives on diversity; social service delivery systems and the consumer populations; advocacy in the social work profession, and the social work interventions of practice, policy, and research.

Secondary goals for the course are familiarization with current topics of debate within the profession, an understanding of different perspectives, and exposure to professional social work values and ethics in practice with diverse client systems across the lifespan. Social work services within the community will be explored, the requirements for social work practice will be presented, and opportunities provided to discover various practice opportunities in the field.

Lastly, students will gain exposure to the helping professions and begin the process of integrating theory and practice by interviewing a social worker in an agency and having the opportunity to complete a service learning experience. There are no prerequisites required to take this course, however, the course serves as a prerequisite for those who intend to apply to the BSW Social Work Program at UNT.

This course is 100% online.

SOWK 1450 is part of the Core Curriculum at UNT. As part of the core, the following four objectives will be met:

1) Critical Thinking: Students will investigate current social problems that impact society and how the social work profession serves diverse populations. Students will learn to make logical arguments to effectively analyze a social issue. Students will demonstrate how this evidence informs their understanding of a human condition. They will compare and contrast theoretical perspectives to recognize multiple perspectives and to help guide professionals in considering solutions to complex problems.

2) Communication: Students will enhance their communication skills through the development, interpretation and expression of ideas through written and oral communication. Students will learn important vocabulary and language utilized in the profession. Oral skills will be demonstrated through discussion, participation in the classroom, and other assignments. Writing skills will be demonstrated through narrative assignments that emphasize clear conceptualization and quality composition.

3) Empirical & Quantitative Skills: Students will become familiar with the scientific method to aid in understanding complex social issues. Students will understand how to effectively utilize research and interpret data to inform conclusions about social conditions and their impact. Students also understand how to assess research and evaluate differing sources of information.

4) Social Responsibility: Students will develop enhanced social responsibility through understanding of intercultural competence, knowledge of civic responsibility, and the ability to engage effectively in regional, national, and global communities. Students will analyze their own perspectives and value system that influence understanding of self and the potential to make meaningful contributions to society.

COMPETENCIES & PRACTICE BEHAVIORS

The core competencies listed below are in accordance with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards 2015. Upon completion of the course, students will demonstrate the core competencies indicated below. The course objectives reflect the expected CSWE Behaviors (B) students will attain.

Core Competency Course ObjectivesStudents will

Assessment

Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior (CC #1)

Students will make ethical decisions by applying the standards of the NASW Code of Ethics, relevant laws and regulations, models for ethical decision making, ethical conduct of research, and

Exams Interview of a Social

Worker Service Learning &

Reflection Paper

additional codes of ethics as appropriate to context; (B #1)

Engage diversity and difference in practice(CC #2)

Students will apply self-awareness and self-regulation to manage the influence of personal biases and values in working with diverse clients and constituencies; (B #8)

Exams World View Paper Service Learning &

Reflection Paper

Engage in practice informed research and research-informed practice (CC #4)

Students will use and translate research evidence to inform and improve practice, policy and service delivery.(B # 13)

Poverty Data Analysis Assignment

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS / ASSISTANCE /ACCESSIBLITY

Blackboard: Copies of the syllabus, weekly lesson modules, assignments and scores on exams and quizzes are posted on Blackboard. If you have any technical difficulty with Blackboard, contact the Student Blackboard Helpline as soon as possible at (940)565-2324 or at helpdesk@unt.edu. Students will not be allowed to retake a quiz based on technical difficulties EXCEPT in the cases of Helpline documented, Blackboard-related technical difficulties. After you contact Blackboard about a technical issue during an assignment, get a ticket number, and email it to me via Brenda.Sweeten@unt.edu as soon as possible.

Students can visit the following link for more information about Blackboard:http://help.blackboard.com/en-us/Learn/9.1_SP_12_and_SP_13/Student.

The following information has been provided to assist you in preparation for the technological aspect of the course.

UIT Help Desk: http://www.unt.edu/helpdesk/index.htmHardware and software necessary to use Bb Learn: http://www.unt.edu/helpdesk/bblearn/Browser requirements: https://bbsupport.unt.edu/TechnicalRequirements Headset/Microphone (if required for synchronous chats) Word Processor

Minimum Technical Skills Needed:Examples include:

Using the learning management systemUsing email with attachments Creating and submitting files in commonly used word processing program formatsCopying and pastingDownloading and installing softwareUsing spreadsheet programs

Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) Blackboard Learn Release 9.1

The Voluntary Product Accessibility Template®, or VPAT® documents Blackboard Learn 9.1's conformance with the accessibility standards under Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. '794 d), as amended by the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (P.L. 105 - 220), August 7, 1998. 

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

Academic integrity emanates from a culture that embraces the core values of trust and honesty necessary for full learning to occur. As a student-centered public research university, UNT promotes the integrity of the learning process by establishing and enforcing academic standards. Academic dishonesty breaches the mutual trust necessary in an academic environment and undermines all scholarship. Academic dishonesty includes cheating, plagiarism, forging the signature of the instructor or of another student, fabrication, and/or facilitating or sabotaging the academic dishonesty of other students.

Any suspected occurrence of academic dishonesty will be investigated and handled in accordance with UNT policy and procedures. The following academic penalties may be assessed at the instructor’s discretion upon determination that academic dishonesty has occurred. Admonitions and educational assignments are not appealable.

1. Admonition. The student may be issued a verbal or written warning. 2. Assignment of Educational Coursework. The student may be required to

perform additional coursework not required of other students in the specific course.

3. Partial or no credit for an assignment or assessment. The instructor may award partial or no credit for the assignment or assessment on which the student engaged in academic dishonesty, to be calculated into the final course grade.

4. Course Failure. The instructor may assign a failing grade for the course.

Should the procedure for appeal of a case of academic dishonesty extend beyond the date when the instructor submits course grades for the semester, the student will be assigned a grade that reflects the penalty, which shall be adjusted, as appropriate, at the conclusion of any appeal process.

Specific details and description of UNT’s Policy on Student Standards of Academic Integrity (18.1.16) and students’ right to appeal are available at http://policy.unt.edu/sites/default/files/untpolicy/pdf/7-Student_Affairs-Academic_Integrity.pdf.

DISABILITY ACCOMMODATION

The University of North Texas makes reasonable academic accommodation for students with disabilities. Students seeking reasonable accommodation must first register with the Office of Disability Accommodation (ODA) to verify their eligibility. If a disability is verified, the ODA will provide you with a reasonable accommodation letter to be delivered to faculty to begin a private discussion regarding your specific needs in a course. You may request reasonable accommodations at any time, however, ODA notices of reasonable accommodation should be provided as early as possible in the semester to avoid any delay in implementation. Note that students must obtain a new letter of reasonable accommodation for every semester and must meet with each faculty member prior to implementation in each class.

Students are strongly encouraged to deliver letters of reasonable accommodation during faculty office hours or by appointment. Faculty members have the authority to ask students to discuss such letters during their designated office hours to protect the privacy of the student. For additional information see the Office of Disability Accommodation website at http://www.unt.edu/oda. You may also contact them by phone at 940.565.4323.

Please note that disability accommodations are not retroactively applied to the start of a course. Accommodations in the course become effective after the student has delivered an official accommodation letter from UNT’s ODA.

IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR F-1 STUDENTS TAKING DISTANCE EDUCATION COURSES

Federal Regulation

To read detailed Immigration and Customs Enforcement regulations for F-1 students taking online courses, please go to the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations website at http://www.ecfr.gov/. The specific portion concerning distance education courses is located at Title 8 CFR 214.2 Paragraph (f)(6)(i)(G).

The paragraph reads:

(G) For F-1 students enrolled in classes for credit or classroom hours, no more than the equivalent of one class or three credits per session, term, semester, trimester, or quarter may be counted toward the full course of study requirement if the class is taken on-line or through distance education and does not require the student's physical attendance for classes, examination or other purposes integral to completion of the class. An on-line or distance education course is a course that is offered principally through the use of television, audio, or computer transmission including open broadcast, closed circuit, cable, microwave, or satellite, audio conferencing, or computer conferencing. If the F-1 student's course of study is in a language study program, no on-line or distance education classes may be considered to count toward a student's full course of study requirement.

University of North Texas Compliance

To comply with immigration regulations, an F-1 visa holder within the United States may need to engage in an on-campus experiential component for this course. This component (which must be approved in advance by the instructor) can include activities such as taking an on-campus exam, participating in an on-campus lecture or lab activity, or other on-campus experience integral to the completion of this course.

If such an on-campus activity is required, it is the student’s responsibility to do the following:

(1) Submit a written request to the instructor for an on-campus experiential component within one week of the start of the course.

(2) Ensure that the activity on campus takes place and the instructor documents it in writing with a notice sent to the International Student and Scholar Services Office. ISSS has a form available that you may use for this purpose.

Because the decision may have serious immigration consequences, if an F-1 student is unsure about his or her need to participate in an on-campus experiential component for this course, s/he should contact the UNT International Student and Scholar Services Office (telephone 940-565-2195 or email internationaladvising@unt.edu) to get clarification before the one-week deadline.

CLASS POLICIES

REQUESTS FOR AN INCOMPLETE AND DROPS

Students may request a grade of incomplete ("I") only if he/she meets all of the following conditions:

The request occurs on or after June 16, 2017; The student is passing the course; There is a justifiable and documented reason beyond the control of the

student (e.g., serious illness or military service) for not completing the course on schedule; and,

The student has the approval of the instructor and the department chair.

Students meeting these criteria must arrange with the instructor to finish the course at a later date by completing specific requirements outlined by the instructor. These requirements must be listed on a “Request for Grade of Incomplete” form signed by the instructor, student, and department chair. More information on UNT’s Incomplete Grade policy is available at http://registrar.unt.edu/grades/incompletes.

Requests to drop the class: We want you to succeed in this class and at UNT. If you are concerned about your progress in the course, or believe you need to drop for other reasons, it is important that you contact the instructor as soon as possible. We want to make sure that dropping the course is your best or only option.

There are consequences to dropping classes that extend beyond losing your invested time, money, and effort. Dropping one or more classes may make you ineligible for financial aid. There are also limits on the number of courses you can drop. You can learn more about this at http://registrar.unt.edu/registration/dropping-class.

If you absolutely have to drop the course, you must pick up a drop form from the Eagle Student Services Center and take it to the instructor for her/his signature. Once the instructor signs the form, you are responsible for taking it to the Registrar’s Office in the Eagle Student Services Center to have it processed. Please be aware that when you choose to drop can affect your grade:

June 6, 2017 Last day to drop a class with an automatic grade of “W” for courses that a student is not passing.

June 15, 2017 Last day a student may elect to drop a class. The instructor will assign a grade of “W” or “WF” based on the student’s actual performance-to-date in the course.

ATTENDANCE/PARTICIPATION POLICY

Active participation is a key requirement of this course. Students who have missed more than 3 assignments in a row may be dropped from the course. Only students with a university or instructor excused absences may make up an exam or the reflection assignment. Examples of university excused absences

include those necessitated by university sponsored events, or an illness which results in some form of visit to a medical doctor. Such absences require written documentation, etc. (i.e., medical doctor notes) and must be submitted within one week of the student’s return to participation. The instructor may also excuse a student on a case-by-case basis.

In order for students to achieve the course objectives, this class will depend heavily on the students’ ability to consistently complete learning modules each week and keep up with assignments. Carefully read the syllabus and ask questions if you have any. There are activities done in this class that will be important for you to participate in as part of your learning, such as service learning volunteer work in an agency and interviewing a licensed social worker. Each student’s participation in on-line group discussions is critical. Each of you has been assigned to a group in which you will participate. This will allow you to become familiar with classmates, and to engage in interaction with others regarding the course content.

For students to be successful in this course, it is highly recommended that you carefully read each assigned chapter in the textbook first and use the PowerPoint slides provided as an outline for notes. Then, be sure to read each module and watch each video. Take notes on these since weekly quizzes will cover content in the weekly modules and videos. Material in the modules and videos are intended to supplement the textbook and help pull the material together. The midterm and final exams will cover only material found in the textbook and will not include material in the modules and videos. It is important that you do not fall behind because it will be difficult to catch up! If you don’t read the textbook, it will be very hard to pass the exams.

STUDENT CONDUCT

Any student behavior that interferes with an instructor’s ability to conduct class or other students' opportunity to learn is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in any instructional setting at UNT. This includes traditional face-to-face classes, online or blended classes, labs, discussion groups or boards, field trips, and verbal and/or written (including email) communication with the instructor and/or other students. Examples of unacceptable behavior include, but are not limited to:

Private conversations with other students during lecture or class discussions; Disrespectful treatment of other students such as verbal or written

harassment or name-calling; Use of profane or other inappropriate language or gestures in class, in written

assignments, on discussion boards, or in email communications, with the instructor or other students;

Disrespectful email communication with the instructor and/or other students; Inappropriate use of electronic devices during class, including but not limited

to any use of a cell phone. Use of tablets or personal computers for anything other than taking notes or other approved class activities is not allowed.

Tardiness that disrupts class.

A student engaging in unacceptable behavior may be directed to leave the classroom or other instructional setting and may also be referred to the Dean of Students to consider whether his/her conduct violates UNT’s Student Code of Conduct. The Code of Student Conduct can be found at www.unt.edu/csrr.

CAMPUS CARRY & CONCEALED HANDGUNS

In accordance with state law and UNT policy, students who are licensed may carry a concealed handgun on campus premises except in locations and at any function, event, and program prohibited by law or by this policy. Students may learn more about UNT’s concealed handgun policy at https://campuscarry.unt.edu.

SEXUAL DISCRIMINATION, HARRASSMENT, & ASSAULT

UNT is committed to providing an environment free of all forms of discrimination and sexual harassment, including sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. If you (or someone you know) has experienced or experiences any of these acts of aggression, please know that you are not alone. The federal Title IX law makes it clear that violence and harassment based on sex and gender are Civil Rights offenses. UNT has staff members trained to support you in navigating campus life, accessing health and counseling services, providing academic and housing accommodations, helping with legal protective orders, and more.  UNT’s Dean of Students’ website offers a range of on-campus and off-campus resources to help support survivors, depending on their unique needs: http://deanofstudents.unt.edu/resources_0. Renee LeClaire McNamara is UNT’s Student Advocate and she can be reached through e-mail at SurvivorAdvocate@unt.edu or by calling the Dean of Students’ office at 940-565-2648. You are not alone. We are here to help.

PROFESSIONAL ETIQUETTE

The college experience is intended to assist in preparing students for professional and career pursuits. That preparation includes learning to use professional etiquette in dealing with people in positions of authority. The appropriate way to address your instructor depends on her/his particular education credentials. These are usually indicated on the course syllabus. If your instructor has a:

Doctorate (Ph.D. or Ed.D.), you should address them as: Dr. Instructor’s last name

Master’s degree (MA, MS, MSW, MSSW) you should address them as: Professor Instructor’s last name

Law degree (J.D.) you should address them as: Professor Instructor’s last name

If you are not certain about an instructor’s education credentials, you should address them as “Professor.” It is not appropriate to call the instructor by his/her first name unless given permission.

Professional etiquette extends to all types of communication with your instructor. Written communication—including email—forms a permanent record and so it is important to use care about how you make requests, ask questions, or express concerns. Slang (e.g., Hey, Yo) and texting abbreviations should be avoided. The use of profanity is not permitted.

Any type of communication—verbal or written—is most likely to achieve the intended result when it is polite or courteous. Please note that communication can be polite even if there is some type of conflict involved. Instructors may choose not to respond to emails or other forms of communication that are perceived as insulting, disrespectful, or unprofessional.

ASSIGNMENTS AND MAKE-UP POLICY

Late assignments will not be accepted in this class.

Make-up exams will only be given in circumstances approved in advance by the instructor. Students who “no-show” for an exam without advance approval from the instructor will not be allowed to make it up and will receive a grade of zero. There will be no exceptions so please pay attention to exam due dates on this syllabus. Students are responsible for ensuring they have a reliable Internet connection before they test on-line. There will be no “do-overs allowed” due to technical failures unless the failure is universal and affects all students. All on-line exams are due by their respective due dates and times. Your exam must be complete by this time. Any exam that all, or in part, is submitted late will receive a zero (0). Exams will be timed and no backtracking is allowed.

EMAIL COMMUNICATION

From time to time, the instructor may need to communicate with the entire class or contact you individually. If/when those occasions arise, only your UNT email account will be used. You are responsible for the information in that email. Failing to check it or have the address in the proper format will not be excused. Information may also be posted on Blackboard Announcements.

Students must have a university account while enrolled in this class. Students may obtain an email address by logging onto https://ams.unt.edu/. This will put you into the computer account management system and you will be able to get Eagle mail. You can arrange for this email to be forwarded to a preferred address if desired.

Please remember to keep all communication with your instructor professional. Keep in mind that anytime you write something in an email message, it is there forever. All emails should be written in a professional manner and spell checked before being sent. It is unacceptable to send an email as one might send a text message with abbreviations, text-like acronyms, no capitalization or periods. If I receive an email from you like this, you will be asked to compose a professional e-mail before I respond. Also remember that emailing your instructor should not take the place of face-to-face conversation. Students who are encountering problems are invited to make an appointment or come during office hours to talk with the instructor.

STUDENT PERSPECTIVES ON TEACHING (SPOT)

The Student Perspectives on Teaching (SPOT) is a requirement for all organized classes at UNT. This short survey will be made available to you through My UNT at the end of the semester, providing you a chance to comment on how this class is taught. I am very interested in the feedback I get from students, as I work to continually improve my teaching. I consider the SPOT to be an important part of your participation in this class. Instructions on how to access SPOT will be given late in the semester.

SUCCEED AT UNT

UNT endeavors to offer you a high-quality education and to provide a supportive environment to help you learn and grow. And, as a faculty member, I am committed to helping you be successful as a student. Here’s how to succeed at UNT: Show up. Find support. Take control. Be prepared. Get involved. Be persistent. To learn more about campus resources and information on how you can achieve success, go to succeed.unt.edu.

EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION AND PROCEDURES

UNT uses a system called Eagle Alert to quickly notify you with critical information in the event of an emergency (i.e., severe weather, campus closing, and health and public safety emergencies like chemical spills, fires, or violence). The system sends voice messages (and text messages upon permission) to the phones of all currently enrolled students. Please make certain to update your phone numbers at https://my.unt.edu/. Some helpful emergency preparedness actions include: 1) know the evacuation routes and severe weather shelter areas in the buildings where your classes are held, 2) determine how you will contact family and friends if phones are temporarily unavailable, and 3) identify where you will go if you need to evacuate the Denton area suddenly. In the event of a university closure, please refer to Blackboard for contingency plans for covering course materials.

REQUIRED TEXTBOOK

Cox, L., Tice, C., Long, D. (2016) Introduction to social work: an advocacy-based profession. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

METHODS OF INSTRUCTION

This class will be taught using on-line components including weekly lesson modules, reading assignments, videos, and participation in experiential activities in the community in which you live as well as discussion groups. Students will be expected to have read materials or viewed assigned videos before each week and take all corresponding quizzes. This class will have a Blackboard site where class materials will be made available. All assignments and exams will be on Blackboard.

CRITERIA FOR STUDENT EVALUATION

Students’ progress will be evaluated utilizing the following criteria:

2 Exams: Mid-term and Final (on Blackboard @ 150 points each) 300 points

10 Quizzes over Lesson Modules and Assigned Reading 100 points

Data Analysis Assignment on Poverty 100 points

World View Paper 100 pointsInterviewing a Social Worker Paper 200 pointsService Learning Hours and Reflection Paper up to 200 points

(10+ = highest possible grade of 200 points)(< 9 hours = highest possible grade of 140 points)

1,000 points

Overall course grades will be assigned on the basis of:

A 895-1000B 795-894C 695-794D 595-694F 594 and below

ASSIGNMENTS AND FEEDBACK

Using proper grammar in written communications is very important in social work practice settings. It demonstrates professionalism and helps to establish your credibility. Turning in a professional product that you can be proud of should be a priority EVERY TIME! Make sure that all of your work is carefully proofread and is typed, double spaced, and has one inch margins, 12 font size, a cover page and pages are numbered, following APA guidelines. It should be easy for the reader to understand your line of reasoning. Excessive grammatical/syntactical errors will result in a lower grade. Please proofread!

In general, students can expect to get immediate feedback on weekly quizzes and other objective testing like the midterm and final evaluations. For written assignments, the instructor has the goal of providing feedback to students within two weeks. All written assignments are to be turned in via Blackboard under the “Assignments” tab on the left of the screen.

Attendance/Participation/Professionalism

While students will not receive a specific grade for their class participation and level of professionalism, it should nevertheless be demonstrated during this course. Social work is a vocation that requires a very high level of personal ethics and professionalism. The Introduction to Social Work class is the first place future social work students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to live up to these expectations. As a gatekeeper of the profession, your instructor takes this very seriously and as an emerging social work professional so should you. I make note of who turns in assignments on time, who is disrespectful to the instructor and/or colleagues when communicating, etc.

1. Exams (300 points or 30% of your grade, mid-term and final)

Two exams will be given this semester on Blackboard. Questions will be multiple choice and true/false covering concepts learned during the course. The exams are worth a total of 300 points (150 points each). You may not use your textbook, notes or PowerPoints for the exams and you may not participate in taking the exams with any other person. This activity may be easily identified when exams are taken electronically. Students found to be dishonest when taking an exam will receive a zero and may be turned in to the Dean of Students for academic dishonesty. The student is responsible for using reliable Internet access. No “’do-overs” will be allowed unless there is a universal

failure of technology. Using Internet Explorer with Blackboard is not recommended. Please use another browser.

A mid-term exam will be given to students and must be completed and submitted by Sunday, June 11, 2017 at 11:59 p.m. The exam will open on Monday, June 5, 2017 at 8:00 a.m. and will close on Sunday, June 11, 2017 at 11:59 p.m. If the exam is submitted after this date and time, the student will receive a zero (0). There are 50 questions and you will have 50 minutes to complete the exam.

An on-line final exam will be given to students and must be completed and submitted by Friday, July 7, 2017 at 3:30 p.m. The exam will open on Monday, July 3, 2017 at 8:00 a.m. and will close on Friday, July 7, 2017 at 3:30 p.m. If the exam is submitted after this date and time, the student will receive a zero (0). There are 50 questions and you will have 50 minutes to complete the exam.

2. Weekly Quizzes (100 points or 10% of your grade, 10 points per quiz)

A total of 10 quizzes will be given over the course of the semester. Each quiz will open on Monday at 8:00 a.m. of the week it due and will close on Sunday night at 11:59 p.m. If a quiz is submitted after this time, you will receive a zero. All quizzes are worth 10 points each for a total of 100 points over the course of the semester. Quizzes will be over the on-line content found in each lesson module (including videos) as well as the assigned reading in the textbook. You will be given two opportunities to take each quiz and I will take the score of your second attempt (which may, or may not be, your highest score). You will have 10 minutes to take the quiz, unless otherwise noted, and backtracking is not allowed.

3. World View Essay (100 points or 10% of your grade, due 5/28/2017 at 11: 59 p.m. uploaded on Blackboard under Assignment Tab)

Students will submit a three to four-page essay detailing their personal values and summarizing their individual viewpoints and perspectives on society. Students must discuss how they believe their personal values were formed and how they impact their current view of the world. This paper is to be double-spaced and follow all APA Style guidelines including a cover page. Think deeply and write professionally!

4. Data Analysis Assignment (100 points or 10% of your grade, due 6/4/2017 at 11:59 p.m. uploaded to Blackboard under Assignment Tab)

Using the Center for Public Policy Priorities website, navigate to the KIDS COUNT DATA CENTER (http://datacenter.kidscount.org) button. Select the DATA BY TOPIC button and then click on the ECONOMIC WELL-BEING button. Once on this page, under LOCATIONS menu refine your search by choosing Texas from the drop-down menu and then chose By County. Under the TOPICS menu choose the Economic Well-Being button and check Poverty. On the right, choose Poverty (0-17) indicator button. Next, chose the following counties: Bexar, Dallas, El Paso, Harris, and then your home county in Texas. If you are not from Texas, then select Denton County as

your home county. Also, select the Compare to Texas button. Under the LOCATIONS menu choose the years 2010-2014. These should be automatically selected for you. Under the DATA TYPE menu, both number and percent should be selected. After selecting the above, you should have created a table. Print the table to turn in.

Next, click on the LINE GRAPH button and make the same selections as above. Print the line graph you have created. Then click on BAR GRAPH and print bar graphs for the same data set for each of the years 2010-2014 using the percent data type. Each year will need to be printed separately for a total of 5 years.

Using the data indicators you have researched and generated, thoroughly and thoughtfully answer the questions on the Data Analysis Quiz found on Blackboard under Lesson 5J in the Poverty and Inequality Lesson. After printing all graphs, tables and the questions, put them all in ONE PDF file and upload them to Blackboard under Assignments. Due on Blackboard at 6/4/2017 at 11:59 p.m.

5. Interviewing a Social Worker Paper (200 points or 20% of your grade, due 6/18/2017 at 11:59 p.m. on Blackboard under Assignment Tab)

All students will interview a licensed social worker that works in a human service agency. Students will learn how that person uses the knowledge, values, and skills of the profession and what working in the profession entails. Students are expected to locate a social worker on their own. The interview must be in person and may not be via phone call or Skype, etc. The interviews may be done in small groups of no more than five members. If a group is used, the group only has to turn in one paper. If a group paper is turned in, I may check to make sure that all members attended the interview. If I find that a class member did not take part in the interview, the individual or every member of the group will receive a zero (0) on this assignment. Take interview notes according to the following outline, write the narrative paper using your notes and turn the paper in by the above deadline. Cite any sources you use in APA format. There is no need to turn in your notes from the interview. Send the social worker an e-mail to thank them for their time. You are expected to print and turn in this thank you e-mail with your paper (upload paper as a PDF).

Both the interview and the paper must be completed to receive any credit for this assignment.

The interview and paper are worth 200 points toward your final grade. Your paper should follow the below outline, including the same bold headings as this outline. Papers should be roughly 5-6 pages, typed, double-spaced, in 12-point font, be page numbered and have a cover page.

If completing a group paper, each student must complete the last two sections of the paper independently; however, may put the multiple sections in one paper (use a subheading (e.g. Reaction of Phil Dunphy, Reaction of Sue Heck, etc.)).

INTERVIEW OUTLINE

During the semester we discuss the values, knowledge and skill required in the profession of social work. Using your observation and interview notes as a base, turn in a paper that addresses the following information. Each area must be addressed as a subheading and there has to be an introduction & conclusion to the paper.

Name of social worker and agency where employedInclude the social worker’s degree and licensure categoryInclude the clients served and the services providedContact information (work phone number and email (if possible)

ValuesWhat values are necessary to work as a social worker in this agency?What value conflicts arise in the performance of this job?

KnowledgeWhat specific knowledge is necessary to work as a social worker in this agency?Is a college education enough knowledge to work in this job or is other

knowledge needed?

SkillsWhat skills are necessary to work as a social worker in this job?What tasks does the social worker perform on a daily or weekly basis?What kind of paperwork is required to be completed in this job?

Positives and Negatives about Social WorkWhat keeps the social worker in the profession?What things would the social worker like to change about the job or the

profession?

Connection to Class (you talk about this but this is not discussed with the Social Worker)

How does the job fit what you have learned about social work in class?How is this job different than what we have discussed in class?

Reaction (for each individual group participant)Would you choose social work as a career based on the interview? Why or

why not (be honest)?What value conflicts do you foresee if you were doing social work?

6. Service Learning Experience (Up to 200 points or 20% of your grade, due by 7/2/17 on Blackboard under Assignment Tab)

Students must complete up to 10 hours of service learning at one agency throughout the course of the semester.

To complete the service-learning requirement, you need to get started early! Students will be required to find a single agency that will allow them to complete 10 hours of volunteer work. Volunteering more time is even better and will be a consideration in determining a grade for the assignment. Everyone must volunteer. During this experience, it is expected that students will need to shadow an employee(s) and become familiar with the knowledge, values and skills required to work as a social worker at the agency. Each student will be asked to complete a 2-3 page written reflection of their experience and what they gained at the end of the semester and will be expected to keep a timesheet (found on Blackboard) that is to be signed by an agency representative to verify hours are completed. Professor Sweeten may also verify with the agency that you volunteered there. Students will be graded according to the number of documented hours they complete and a well-written and thoughtful reflection paper.

Extra Credit

Two Discussion Boards will be offered during the semester with 10 points extra credit awarded for quality participation in each discussion. You have been randomly divided into assigned groups by the instructor and the discussion will take place within these small groups. Always be professional and thoughtful when responding to others to get full credit. There will be a Discussion Board available during Week 1 and Week 3. Additional discussions may be added so be on the look-out. An announcement will be made if a discussion is added.

COURSE OUTLINE AND READINGS

It is expected that readings will be done prior to class discussions. The instructor reserves the right to modify the schedule, as class needs dictate.

DATE PRESENTATION TOPIC REQUIRED READING/VIEWING ASSIGNMENTS DUE

May 15

(WEEK 1)

The Social Work Profession (Ch. 1)

The History of Social Work and Social Welfare (Ch. 2)

Review syllabus & Blackboard format for course

Review “Start Here” Module

READING: Chapter 1 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 1 on Blackboard

READING: Chapter 2 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 2A on Blackboard Watch Legacies Of Social

Change: Part I Video

Complete Zip Code Survey by 5/17/2017

QUIZ Lesson 1 (Due 5/21/2017 @ 11:59 p.m.)

QUIZ Lesson 2A (Due 5/21/2017 @ 11:59 p.m.)

Complete Discussion Board “Introduce Yourself” (Due 5/21/17 @ 11:59 p.m.)

May 22

(WEEK 2)

The History of Social Work and Social

Welfare, cont. (Ch. 2)

Generalist Social Work Practice: The Planned Change Process (Ch.

3)

READING: Chapter 2 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 2B on Blackboard

READING: Chapter 3 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 3 on Blackboard

QUIZ Lesson 2B (Due 5/28/2017 @ 11:59 p.m.)

WORLD VIEW PAPER DUE 5/28/2017 @ 11:59 p.m. on Blackboard

May 29

(WEEK 3)

Advocacy in Social Work (Ch. 4)

Poverty and Inequality (Ch. 5)

READING: Chapter 4 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 4 on Blackboard

READING: Chapter 5 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 5 on Blackboard

QUIZ Lesson 4 (Due 6/4/2017 @ 11:59 p.m.)

Group Discussion on Paternalism (Due 6/4/2017 @ 11:59 p.m.)

QUIZ Lesson 5 (Due 6/4/2017 @ 11:59 p.m.)

DATA ANALYSIS ASSIGNMENT & QUIZ ON CHILD POVERTY

IN TEXAS. Due 6/4/2017 @ 11:59 p.m. Upload as a single PDF file to Blackboard

June 5 (WEEK

4)

Health Care and Medical Social Work

(Ch. 7) **NOTE CHAPTERS ARE OUT

OF ORDER HERE!

MID-TERM EXAM THIS WEEK ON

BLACKBOARD

READING: Chapter 7 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 7 on Blackboard Watch Facing Death

Video

REVIEW & TAKE the Mid-term Exam this week

QUIZ Lesson 7 (Due 6/11 @ 11:59 p.m.)

MID-TERM EXAM (Chs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7) DUE BY 6/11/17 @ 11:59 P.M. on Blackboard

June 12

(WEEK 5)

Family and Children Part I (Ch. 6)

READING: Chapter 6 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 6A on Blackboard Lesson 6B on Blackboard Watch Bully Video

QUIZ Lessons 6A & 6B (Due 6/18/2017 @ 11:59 p.m.)

INTERVIEWING A SOCIAL WORKER PAPER DUE BY 6/18/2017 @ 11:59 P.M. on Blackboard

June 19

(WEEK 6)

Physical and Developmental

Disabilities (Ch. 8)

Mental Health (Ch. 9)

READING: Chapter 8 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 8 on Blackboard Watch When Billy Broke

His Head Video

READING: Chapter 9 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 9 on Blackboard

QUIZ Lesson 9 (Due 6/25/2017 @ 11:59 p.m.)

June 26

(WEEK 7)

Substance Use and Addiction (Ch. 10) READING: Chapter 10

(Cox, et al) Lesson 10 on Blackboard Watch The Anonymous

People Video and take quiz

QUIZ Lesson 10 The Anonymous People (Due 7/2/2017 @ 11:59 p.m.)

SERVICE LEARNING

Social Work and the Elderly (Ch. 11)

READING: Chapter 11 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 11 on Blackboard

HOURS AND PAPER DUE 7/2/2017 @ 11:59 p.m. on Blackboard

July 3 (WEEK

8)

Criminal Justice and Social Work

Intervention (Ch. 12)

READING: Chapter 12 (Cox, et al)

Lesson 12 on Blackboard Watch Healing Neen

Video

QUIZ Lesson 12 (7/7/2017 @ 3:30 p.m.)

STUDY FOR THE FINAL EXAM!!

July 7(WEEK

8)Final Exam Day

Final ExamOpens on-line on July 3, 2017 @ 8:00 a.m.

and closes July 7, 2017 @ 3:30 p.m.Late submissions

(after 3:30 p.m.) will NOT be accepted.

FINAL EXAM ON-LINEDue 3:30 p.m. today