Theory Map
Each learner will develop a theory map, a document that summarizes theories that address the social issue or practice issue (s) that are most important to the learner. Consider a broad view of as much of the history and culture that contribute to theory. Select two theories to focus on. Learners will practice applying the theories to a practice issue of choice. This can be client-specific, context-specific, or organization-specific. You can draw upon previous assignments in this course as appropriate. The theory map will be calculated through the following:
Theory Map: Mapping is a helpful activity when you undertake a broad view of something yet want to capture important parts. There are different ways to map. You can use the suggestion in Canvas or create your own. In a Word document, you will provide information about your focus and the theories under review. If you use reference theories, you will highlight perspectives or models (the theory or theories that inform the perspective or model). If you focus on a theory, you will highlight the perspective and model that is informed by that theory. You can use words or shapes to illustrate your theory map. Get creative!
Use screen recording that reviews the following prompts:
Describe how theory can be used to address the unmet need/social issue.
Who are the main contributors to these theories and why/how did they develop the theories/perspectives/models?
What disciplines and dominant discourses have created and supported the development of these theories/perspectives/models?
What epistemologies guide these theories/perspectives/models?
What ethics and values do these theories/perspectives/models purport and how does that relate to social justice and the values of the social work profession?
How are these theories/perspectives/models being used in social work practice?
Learners are required to bring in outside literature and knowledge from previous coursework to make sense of the theories selected.
To help you get started, please review this handout.
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Theory Reflection
In this activity, you will reflect on your own practice experience and create a resource for your professional development. You can incorporate previous assignments from this course in your reflection as appropriate. In a three-to-five-page paper, write a reflective paper responding to the following questions:
What knowledge of theories and models did you have prior to the start of this course?
Discuss their presence/absence
Were there any conflicting thoughts with regard to a theoretical orientation or approach that you experienced/currently are experiencing?
Consider a practice-based example where you found yourself at a crossroads of understanding how to help a client system. With this example, describe the issue(s) and how you responded to it.
Did you have what you needed to address the issue? If so, elaborate.
Did you not have what you needed to address the issue? If so, elaborate.
If anything could have been done differently, what would that have been and how would that look? Identify key players, resources, timeframes, or anything else that would have brought resolution to the situation.
Knowing what you know now, is there a practice theory, or a combination of practice theories, that could help you unpack the situation? If so, elaborate. If not, come up with your own practice theory for the situation
Just complete the Theory Map and 3 page paper. I will do the voice recording.
See Attachment for Theory map example.
Find 2 theories supporting Segregation and Stigma of HIV/Aids in Black women
