Social Work: Sexualities and Critical SW (OL3)

About SWSS 6990 OL3

See Schedule of Courses for specific titles.

Notes

Has both synchronous and asynchronous components: Mondays 9-11Am Synchronous, other times Asynchronous

Section Description

This online course focuses on the integration of human sexuality, sexual health and sex related content in social work research, theory, policy and practice. Critical race, Intersectionality and feminist perspectives anchor the course in addressing social justice across multiple practice contexts. We will explore some historical, political and cultural contexts of human sexuality within western social systems and globally. Consistent with a focus on critical race perspectives, this course is designed to provide students with opportunities to dive into a focused topic of interest within the purview of social work practice of interest to them. Hopefully, students will gain skills and understanding of the diversity of sexual values, attitudes and behavioral expressions that emerge across all social work contexts. Students are encouraged to bridge theory to practice through critical thinking, critical self-reflection and a practice centered on relationality. Challenging topics related to sexual violence are likely to emerge.
Upon completion of this course, students will increase self-awareness regarding personal sexual identity and the evolution and maintenance of personal sexual values, biases, and attitudes. Students will explore personal reactions to the range and variety of sexual needs and expressions. Students will better understand the sexual needs and expressions of sexually marginalized groups such as older adults, folx with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals & communities and communities of color. Students will gain a better understanding of the theoretical underpinnings to addressing human sexualities in social work practice. This course will provide students with opportunities to identify their strengths as social workers and human service professionals, and to critically reflect on their own personal values as well.

Section Expectation

This is a four week, fast paced and primarily online (Brightspace) and asynchronous course with 4 synchronous sessions; we will meet online through Teams on Wednesdays from 9-11 throughout the duration of this month long course (5/20, 5/27, 6/3 & 6/10), and participation in these online sessions is required and expected. This is a reading and writing heavy four-week intensive course and is designed for MSW students entering their second year and/or advanced standing students. This is a student led course in that students are expected to identify a few subareas within the larger purview of sexualities to individually explore.
Much of the coursework will be completed on students own time, with assessments and activities scaffolding each week to ideally come together as a final project. Students new to the overarching umbrella of sexualities and social work are welcome; as are those hoping to leverage their personal and professional expertise and knowledge on these topics. There are no quizzes or exams; students will complete weekly discussion board assignments, and a weekly activity/assignment. Students create a project on a topic of their choosing.

Evaluation

This is an online month long course and students will be expected to have access to Brightspace, Teams in order to participate. There are 4 required synchronous meetings via Teams on Wednesdays (5/20, 5/27, 6/3 & 6/10). There are no exams or quizzes however this is a reading and writing heavy course; and students are required to obtain the text, Sex Positive Social Work by SJ Dodd, Columbia University Press & is available through the UVM bookstore. Completion of weekly discussion boards, assignments and a final project, as well as participation in online synchronous sessions , are necessary for successful completion of this course.

Important Dates

Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.

Resources

• Parking
• PACE Course Pricing
• Textbooks
• Summer University Pricing
• Summer Housing

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