CDS1000 Introduction to Community Welfare and Development (FOART)

Semester 1 (ONC)Fraser Cst (EXT)Toowoomba

Units 1.0 (Welfare Studies) Band 1

Co-requisite: CMS1000

Synopsis

This course is an introduction to key issues and principles in the community work environment recognizing trends to increased competition for funding, demands for accountability, demand for services, responsiveness to social and cultural diversity, enhanced administrative, management, liaison and advocacy capabilities. Many of the fundamental skills and attitudes and much of the basic knowledge required is common for workers in varied social settings and various community services including carers, workers with Indigenous, refugee or immigrant communities; workers in women's shelters; youth workers and self-help groups. Emerging initiatives covered include principles of rights based development, empowerment, community rather than individual approaches, enhancing social capital and giving voice to the disadvantaged through advocacy. The course provides students with insights across a range of disciplines and sectors preparing them to contribute effectively to responsive, trans-disciplinary teams and adapt to emerging initiatives in working in community organisations or community development work with marginalized groups in Australian society.