Social Inclusion Policy and Practice

This subject is not offered in 2016.

170 Hours

For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Commonwealth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this course are articulated in the Course Overview, Objectives and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this course are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and the Disability Liaison Unit: 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.

On completion of this subject students should have:

• 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 (20%) to be prepared before the course for presentation during the course;
• One 4000 word essay (80%) due 4 weeks after the delivery of the subject.

Hurdle requirement: As this is an Intensively-taught subject, Lecture/Seminar attendance is compulsory for all classes. All pieces of written work must be submitted to pass this subject.

Reading material will be available.

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