Social Work and Group Dynamics

Recommended Prerequisites

NA

Teaching Methods

In each module, an attempt is made to effect the following approach:

• Exhibition / theoretical information content of operating by the teacher;

• Analysis and debate around the texts and documents;

• Presentation of case studies with particular emphasis on student participation;

• Working group, presentation and plenary discussion of various topics on the Course

Learning Outcomes

The Curricular Unit of Groups and Organizational Social Work of the degree in Social Work is structured in two main central axes which are subdivided in the following objectives (i) The approach of social intervention with groups and corresponding instrumental and strategic processes used in the profession of Social Work Group (ii) Presentation and discussion of principles and processes related to Social Work with Groups and Group Dynamics particularly with regarding in a first moment with a more analytical nature of the concept consolidation for in a second time of a more instrumental and operating aim present and train analytical and practical skills, using exercises and simulations.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Module I -  Social Work with Groups

1. Group : Characteristics , Operation and Structure

2. Conceptual Frontiers in Social Work with Groups : Group Work , Teamwork , Working in collaboration , working with groups, Group Supervision and Socio-therapy

3. Analytical and operative perspectives in social group intervention process : individual, inter individual and collective dimensions

Module II - Processes of Intervention  with Groups

1. Communication in the group.

2. Methodologies and Procedures for Social Intervention: The circular and dynamic process among diagnosis, planning, intervention and evaluation (Participatory processes, empowerment, mobilization and change).

3. Dynamic group in action research processes: Theoretical and practical perspectives

Module III - Working With Groups and Group Dynamics

1. Relationships of Connection and Disconnection

2. The role of the social worker in working with small groups, mediation, training and change

3. Future Prospects

Head Lecturer(s)

Joana Carla Marques Vale Mendes Guerra

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Research work: 50.0%
Frequency: 50.0%

Bibliography

Carmo, H (2000). Intervenção Social com Grupos. Lisboa: Universidade Aberta

Ferreira, S (2009) A intervenção estratégica do terceiro sector in Revista Critica de Ciências Sociais, 84 , pp 169-193. Coimbra: CES

Lawler, J & Bilson, A (2010) Social Work Management and LeaderShip: Managing Complexity with Creativity. London: Routledge.

Parker, J & Bradley, G (2007) Social Work Practice: Assessment; Planning; Intervention and Review. London:LearningMatters

Poch, T (1998) Trabajo Social de Grupo: grupos socioterapéuticos y socioeducativos, Cuadernos de trabajo Social, nº 11, pp 103-122.

Santos, C, Sequeira, J (2009).Instrumentos de diagnóstico e Intervenção em situação de Probreza transgeracional. Paper apresentado no colóquio internacional do ISSSP sob a temática “A Transgeracionalidade da Pobreza em Portugal”. Porto: ISSSP.

Rolfe, Gary, Jasper, Melanie and freshwater, Dawn (2011). Critical Reflection in Practice. Generating knowledge for care. 2nd edition. London: Palgrave Macmillan.