The Working Poor
Through a hands-on simulation, readings, class discussions, guest speakers, and media presentations, students will gain a foundational knowledge of the history of the working poor in the U.S., the theories regarding causation and reduction, and the grassroots efforts for change as they relate to the social class referred to as the working poor. Students will build on this foundation by developing a specific knowledge of the working poor in the Dubuque community.
Self-Care and the Helping Professions
We will begin by looking at the ACES (Adverse-Childhood Experiences Study) and the importance of Trauma Informed Care in the helping professions. We will identify compassion fatigue, secondary trauma, and burnout in relation to working with vulnerable populations. The emphasis on the professional and their commitment and knowledge of self- care practices. Throughout the 3 weeks, we will study traditional self-care (exercising, journaling) as well as more untraditional methods (Reiki, essential oil therapy, meditation, laughter yoga, crystal healing, and many more.) Professionals from the community will be brought in to teach and practice with students.
Social Work with Groups and Families
This is the first course in a sequence of three generalist practice courses. This course addresses practice with families and small groups and focuses on introductory skills needed to facilitate groups. The focus is on group work which entails the deliberate use of intervention strategies and group processes to accomplish individual, group and community goals, using the value base and ethical practice principles of the social work profession.
Social Work with Organizations and Communities
This course explores the aspect of generalist practice involving proactive responding to large groups, communities and organizations. Macro skills of working within an agency or organizational leadership, supervision issues, grant writing, fundraising and community organizing are emphasized. Other skills to facilitate meetings, networking, time management, and handling conflict are addressed.
Social Work in an Aging Population
Social Work in an Aging Population will provide students with a broad overview of social work practice with older adults. Students will explore social work practice related to the changing demographics and trends in aging, biopsychosocial aspects of aging, end-of-life care, assessment practices with older adults and their families, services within the Dubuque community and nationally for older adults, career paths available in the aging field, and policy implications for practice.
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