Reflective essay 2000 words
a)
Describe the rationale for group work
This section begins with a historical overview of the development of groupwork theory and practice. The advantages and disadvantages of working in groups are explored and compared with working individually. The different types of groups are identified, including groups set up for therapy, counselling groups, personal growth groups, T-groups, structured groups such as work groups, educational groups and self-help groups. Ethical and professional issues related to group leaders are introduced and discussed. These include involuntary membership, informed consent, freedom to withdraw from the group, psychological risks for the group, confidentiality, legal liability and malpractice. The section concludes with ways to safeguard your groups and yourself from these risks.
c) Identify and analyse key elements of group dynamics and group process
5.
e) Demonstrate group observation and analysis skills
6.
f) Compare a diverse range of groups according to the roles and functions of the leader and group participants within these groups
7.
g) Evaluate the ethical and legal dimensions of group work
Reflective Essay 50% 2000 words
Purpose:
The purpose of this assignment is to reflect on the experience of being a group member. Students will analyse their own experiences and relate this to the literature on group work. Students will gain insight into the link between group work theory and practice.
Process:
You will reflect on a personal experience of being a member of a group and write an essay analysing this experience. The group chosen as the focus of your discussion may include any type of group of which you are or have been a part, and may include a personal growth group, counselling group, support group, work group, sporting team, recreational group or club, etc. Please be careful not to include any information that might identify the specific group or its members.
Your essay will need to include:
- · Description of the type of group and its purpose
- · Identification of stages of group development experienced by the group
- · Description of the approach to group facilitation
- · Analysis of significant elements of group process and dynamics present in the group
- · Identification of potentially significant ethical or legal issues
- · Brief reflection on personal and professional learning gained as a result of being
part of this group and how the group processes have contributed to this learning
- · Linking ideas to relevant theory as discussed in the unit
- · Main ideas clearly and logically presented
- · Relevant research and scholarship literature used appropriately to support claims
- · Correct academic writing style used, including correct spelling, grammar and punctuation
- · In-text referencing and reference list follows APA referencing style (6th ed.) as set out in the APA website: http://www.apastyle.org/
- · Word count is within + or – 10% of requirement
