Essentials of Community and Organizational Practice (509)

In this course, you will learn how various methods, strategies, and skills within macro social work practice are used to help identify and address needs on a larger scale. Learners will gain knowledge and skills in the areas of community organizing, management, and policy advocacy, and learn about the various roles social workers play within these areas. This course will provide an appreciation of the historical and contemporary importance of these social work methods and the relevance of these methods for diverse populations and identities. Learners will explore ethics, diversity, and inclusion in social work. Learners will recognize when change is needed in communities and organizations, the role of power in maintaining systems or changing them, and how to lead communities and organizations through ethical and responsible engagement. 

The course is organized into eight modules that include information lectures, readings, resource videos, interviews with experts, and engaging activities to encourage reflection, growth, and action. We anticipate that it will take you approximately three or four hours to complete each of the modules.

For learners pursuing the full Social Work Essentials Certificate, this course is commonly taken concurrently with 507 and 508. The recommend pacing is 1 module per week per course, working on all 3 courses at the same time.