Social Inclusion Policy and Practice

This subject is not offered in 2013.

In addition to face-to-face teaching time of 24 hours, students should expect to undertake a minimum of 120 hours research, reading, writing and general study to complete this subject successfully.

For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.
The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Do we live in a Big Society; a social investment state; a socially inclusive society or a global economy? How can we make sense of policy and programs in the context of seemingly ever-changing paradigms and politics? What is the role of social policy in the face of enduring inequalities and new social risks?
Drawing on sociological and social policy frameworks and practice knowledge, this subject addresses key challenges associated with the translation of policy into practice in local and international contexts.

• an understanding of the conceptual tools needed to critically assess and engage with current and emerging policy frameworks and challenges

• the ability to formulate policies that recognise complexity, uncertainty and risk

• an understanding of the impact of social policies and programs on socially excluded and marginalised groups

• knowledge of contemporary social policy research and program evaluation, including consideration of ethical issues in applied settings

• the development of networks with social policy makers, advocates and practitioners

• One oral presentation (equivalent of 1000 words), on a policy issue relevant to their work area or area of interest - to be prepared before the course for presentation during the course. (20% total weighting for assessed students)
• One 4000 word essay, due 4 weeks after the delivery of the subject (80% total weighting for assessed students)

Course materials are included – a pre-reading folder, course notes, Student Services Handbook and Study Guide.

Nil

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of the subject, students will be expected to be able to demonstrate the following generic skills:

• Capacity for critical thinking and analysis
• Capacity to apply analytical frameworks in a professional practice context
• Research skills, based in an understanding of the importance of social, ethical and cultural contexts
• Written and oral skills in the presentation of complex ideas in practical ways