Welcome to Module 9

Chapters 10 Problems in Education and School Social Work

In 1957 the United States and the Soviet Union were involved in an unofficial race to be first to place a satellite in orbit. The race became a symbol of international honor and prestige. The Soviets won when they successfully launched Sputnik I into orbit. Why did the United States lose? There were numerous reasons. However, the general public blamed the American educational system for neglecting subjects that were vital to national survival. For example, one outspoken critic, Max Rafferty, stated, “Instead of offering a four-year program of studies in mathematics, history, foreign languages, and other disciplines [high schools], encourage students to divert themselves with ceramics, stagecraft, table decorating, upholstering, and second-year golf.” Following these events, the American educational system was called on to emphasize mathematics, natural science, and other courses that would enable our country to successfully compete with the Soviets. This historical incident is just one of many that could be cited to illustrate that when events in our society do not go as the public wants, the educational system in the United States is often, rightly or wrongly, a target of blame. Today, one of the countries that American children are competing with is China, as China is an economic power that is rivaling the United States. Can our children outperform children from less democratic countries?

Chapter 11 Work-Related Problems and Social Work in the Workplace

A question that is commonly asked when two strangers meet is, “What do you do for a living?” Work is a central focus in our lives. Work not only enables us to earn money to pay bills, but it can also provide a sense of self-respect, a circle of colleagues and friends, and a source of self-fulfillment. A challenging job can help us to grow intellectually, psychologically, and socially. Work also largely determines our place in the social structure. We are, to a great extent, defined by our work. In our society, we value the “work ethic”; that is, we consider work to be honorable, productive, and useful.

Module Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

Summarize problems that school systems currently face. (CLO 1, 2).
Describe proposals for improving education. (CLO 2, 3, 4).
Suggest ideas for improving educational opportunities for children of low-income and minority families. (CLO 3, 5).
Summarize the functions of school social workers and describe several roles for school social work practice. (CLO 2, 4)
Summarize a brief history of work.(CLO 1, 2)
Describe four major problems involving work: alienation, discrimination and harassment, unemployment, and occupational health hazards. Also, it summarizes current efforts and proposed new approaches to combat these problems. (CLO 2,3, 5)
Describe social work in the workplace, which is an emerging field of social work practice.(CLO 1, 2)

(CLO = Course Learning Outcome)

To Do

Please read/watch all of the module learning materials (readings, presentations, videos, etc.) and complete all assignments/assessments listed below. If you have questions, please contact the course instructor or ask in the Questions About This Course forum.

Readings and Presentations:

Reading :
Chapters 10 Problems in Education and School Social Work
Chapter 11 Work-Related Problems and Social Work in the Workplace
Presentation
Zastrow13_Chapter 10_FInal.pptx
Zastrow13_Chapter 11_FInal.pptx

Videos:

Assignments/Assessments:

Complete the following assignments by the date and time indicated on each assignment page.

Discussion Board: Discussion Q 11
Assignment: Written Assignment

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