3 Units
This is an introductory course on the concept and meaning of social work and social welfare. It aims to help students understand the role of social welfare in society and the role of social work as a helping profession in social welfare. Course content includes appraising the mission, scope, and functions of social welfare and social work, examining different welfare approaches, and discussing factors giving rise to unmet needs. The relationship between social welfare and other social institutions, and the major types of social welfare services in Hong Kong will also be introduced. Special attention will be given to addressing the plights of vulnerable populations and promoting social justice, and to equip students with foundation knowledge and essential values for the profession of social work.