Key facts
UNE unit code: HSSW400B
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Develop your understanding of the biopsychosocial needs and challenges of marginalised and/or disadvantaged groups within the broader community.
In this unit, you will explore the complex interplay of psychological, sociological, political and policy frameworks as they relate to service provision in Australia.
Using diverse real-life scenarios, you will apply different theoretical approaches to critique varied service delivery issues and apply systemic advocacy, critical allyship and anti-oppressive practice. You will also focus on the impact of lack of adequate social and health services, learn about the needs of Indigenous, migrant and rural communities, and address the portrayal of marginalised groups in the mainstream media.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- critically analyse key elements in a case study relevant for further investigation;
- apply a range of social work and other pertinent theories to critically analyse and respond to the service delivery needs of a particular group, including Indigenous groups, migrant groups and those in rural communities;
- deconstruct the ways in which the media portray issues relating to marginalised and/or disadvantaged groups; and
- articulate a social worker's role in responding to disadvantage and/or marginalisation.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Written assessment No. Words: 750 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Online activity No. Words: 1500 (equivalent) |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Written Assessment No. Words: 2000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Engaging with Social Work: A Critical Introduction
ISBN: 9781009397063
Morley, C., Macfarlane, S. and Ablett, P., Cambridge University Press 3rd ed. 2025
Text refers to: All offerings
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Australia's Welfare Wars: The Players, the Politics and the Ideologies
ISBN: 9781742234786
Mendes, P., UNSW Press 3rd ed. 2017
Text refers to: All offerings
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