Spring 2007

WGS 440 • Roots of Social/Economic Justice-England Maymester

Course Description

This course teaches students about the historical roots of the professionalization of helping others and the profession of social work. The course will also focus on the governmental social services delivery system and the impact on client populations, and the diverse cultures living in London that provide the context for social services. The course will be taught through cultural immersion in ethnic neighborhoods, field visits, and seminars. The purpose of this course is to deepen students' understanding of the rights and responsibilities of being a good citizen in an increasingly global society, to promote cross-cultural learning, and to expand the critical appreciation for the social framework in which we live as it relates to the moral and ethical problems encompassed by social justice. There is a 10-hour volunteer opportunity with Toynbee Hall, or other social service agency. Historic Toynbee Hall, established in 1873, is the first settlement home and could be considered the birthplace of social work.

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