Unit Catalogue

Back to Unit Search

SWK102 - Communication Skills

2023

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Social Work

(SWK142B)

Unit Description

This unit introduces students to core interpersonal communication skills required for a range of professional practices such as Social Work, Health Sciences, Midwifery and Community Studies. The topics that are introduced in this unit include communication principles and processes, communication micro skills, the implications of difference for communication in professional practice, interviewing and counselling and the impact of technology on communication. Students will complete the unit with a wide range of knowledge and skills underpinning the essential skill of effective interpersonal communication.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Describe basic communication concepts for Social Work and Human Services professional practice including Health Science, Midwifery and Community Studies.
2.	Apply knowledge and skills in giving and receiving feedback.
3.	Identify communication micro skills and discuss how these impact upon empathy and rapport building.
4.	Describe professional, personal and ethical values required for communication.
5.	Discuss the ways diversity, power, gender, culture and values impact communication.
6.	Identify barriers that can impede effective communication.
7.	Reflect on their own communication style to identify the strengths and areas for development.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Online quizzes (2 x 1 hour)	40%	1,2,3,4,5,6
2.	Communication Skills Essay (1000 words)	30%	1,2,3,5,6,7
3.	Reflective essay (1000 words)	30%	1,2,3,4,5,6,7

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2023	Semester 2	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR
2023	Semester 2	External	External Studies	OLR
2023	Semester S	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR	View
2023	Semester S	External	External Studies	OLR	View

* Timetable will be displayed in new tab or window depending on your browser's configuration; ensure Pop-ups are allowed for this site to view the timetable.

OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
Fees and Payments
Student Services and Amenities Fees
2023 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)