The course offers a comprehensive exploration of disability within the sociopolitical context, providing essential clinical and cultural insights for individuals working with clients and their families. It encompasses an examination of theories, historical perspectives, contemporary policies, programs, and disability rights in the United States. The course particularly emphasizes the cultural influences on individual experiences. Additionally, it delivers a broad overview of assessment and intervention strategies within the context of disability.
Social workers must be able to understand and use research in order to conduct ethical and effective practice. It is essential that social workers have the knowledge and skills necessary to retrieve, critically evaluate and apply existing research; to evaluate programs and practices; and to design and carry out ethical research. This course provides a thorough review of all basic social research concepts with an emphasis on evidence-based practice and concepts related to program and practice evaluation. This course also seeks to ensure that students engage in critical thinking and have basic knowledge of important research skills including library search skills and qualitative and quantitative data analysis. The goal of this course is to help students develop critical thinking skills that will prepare students for real world application.