Equity Case Studies Report - School of Social Work - University of ...

UBC school of social work equity and diversity strategic plan: A compilation of case studies 116
Appendix M
University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Course Descriptions, and
Social Justice and Diversity Specialization Information
First Year required class, addressing equity and diversity in Social Work Practice
SWK 4107H – Foundations of Social Work: Knowledge, Theory and Values that Inform Practice
This course critically engages with the knowledge, theories and values that constitute the
foundation of the social work profession and inform its practice. This foundation has
incorporated elements drawn from different disciplines and diverse knowledge bases. The
process of integration and subsequent transformation is ongoing and ultimately contributes to
developing a theoretical and value base needed to conduct professional, ethical, competent,
evidence-based social work. We believe that social work is informed by multiple intersecting
theories. A range of theories and approaches will be considered and students will learn to
examine the various kinds of knowledge use in social work. The frameworks covered will span:
intra-personal, interpersonal, environmental and social/ structural theories. Analyses of the
strengths, limitations and relevancy of these frameworks will be conducted and contextualized
with regard to the intersecting diversities found in Canadian society.
(University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash, Faculty of Social Work, 2012, p. 10)
Elective addressing equity and diversity issues
SWK 4658H Social Work With Immigrants and Refugees
This course examines the social construction of immigrants, visible minorities and people of
colour, as well as, the intersecting oppressions of race/ethnicity, gender, class, age, sexual
orientation and differential ability experienced by immigrants and refugees in Canada. The
course provides an overview of the history of immigration to Canada and the impact of social
policies and programs on the settlement and adaptation of newcomers. The course will also
highlight the barriers that newcomers face in Canadian society and emphasis will be placed on
access and equity as fundamental principles that should form the basis of human service delivery
for newcomers. Finally, the course examines different models of service provision with a view to
developing empowering practice with immigrants and refugees. Throughout the course, special
attention will be paid to the integration of theory, research and practice, and the different levels
of practice.
(University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash, Faculty of Social Work, 2009)
Social Justice and Diversity Specialization in the MSW program
Diversity in our local, national and international context has drawn attention to the need for
specialized knowledge, skills and attitudes for addressing the needs of diverse populations.
Diversity in this context refers to those defining characteristics of individuals and groups that are
related to factors such as gender, age, ethnicity, class, religion, sexual orientation and mental and
physical ability among others. There has been an increasing articulation of the importance of
embracing the identity-based realities of existing and emerging groups, and addressing their
experiences of oppression and exclusion. Recognizing that social justice is a primary
consideration in work with such populations, this specialization is aimed at equipping social
workers with specific skills and knowledge for reducing inequities, social exclusion and