The Introductory Course in the Undergraduate Social Work Curriculum

Authors

Philip R. Popple, Auburn University

Abstract

The content of the Introduction to Social Welfare course in 168 bachelor of social work (BSW) programs is analyzed including major concepts presented, research results and statistical data presented or assigned, theoretical perspectives used, and the perceived importance of, and methods used to develop values. Several problems with the introductory course are identified: no set body of content, minimal support by research and statistical data, frequent lack of explicit theoretical content, and an overriding emphasis on developing values. More uniformity in content is necessary in order to facilitate the development of good teaching materials and to provide a firm foundation upon which to build the rest of the curriculum.

Recommended Citation

Popple, Philip R. (1991) "The Introductory Course in the Undergraduate Social Work Curriculum," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 18: Iss. 1, Article 8.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.1972
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol18/iss1/8