Norfolk State University
Master Online Course Syllabus
Course ID: Course Description
Instructor Name, Title
13
Contents
Course Summary............................................................................................................................................................2
Prerequisites ..................................................................................................................................................................2
Instructional Methods and Strategies ...........................................................................................................................3
Computer Literacy Requirements..................................................................................................................................3
Learning Objectives .......................................................................................................................................................4
Instructional Materials...................................................................................................................................................4
Required Texts .......................................................................................................................................................4
Suggested Texts .....................................................................................................................................................4
Other Sources ........................................................................................................................................................4
NSU Assessment Policy ..................................................................................................................................................5
University Assessment Statement .........................................................................................................................5
Proctoring Policy ....................................................................................................................................................5
On-Campus Proctor Schedule for Midterm and Exams .........................................................................................5
Late Assignments and Make-up Policy ..........................................................................................................................5
Learner Interaction Policy ..............................................................................................................................................5
Evaluations.....................................................................................................................................................................6
Example of a Rubric ...............................................................................................................................................6
Written Work Criteria ............................................................................................................................................6
Academic Integrity Standards ................................................................................................................................6
Attendance Policy ..........................................................................................................................................................7
Assignments ...................................................................................................................................................................7
Grade Scale ....................................................................................................................................................................7
Calendar of Assignments ...............................................................................................................................................8
Course Outline ...............................................................................................................................................................8
Bibliography ...................................................................................................................................................................9
Special Instructions & Policies .......................................................................................................................................9
Communication .......................................................................................................................................................... 10
This template was developed by Dr. Macarena Aspillaga, Course Designer, Norfolk State University, School of Extended Learning_ Rev 3
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Course Number & Course Name: Social Work with Families SWK-775
Semester: Spring 2012
Class Meets: Thursday, 4:30-7:30PM BMH B-123
Instructor Name: Dr. Jane X. Doe, LCSW
Office location and office hours
Norfolk State University
Brown Hall Room B-111
Office Hours: Tue- 3-5 pm and Thur. 10am-12 pm
Cyber Office Hours: Tue- 6-7 pm and Wed 8am-10am
Email address: jdoe@nsu.edu
Telephone: Office 757-823-2345, Alternate 757-823-1234
Preferred method of communication: Blackboard email
Course Summary
Course Description
This course provides the learner with the theoretical concepts and treatment approaches unique to the
modality of family therapy. It gathers basic knowledge of the family in context from the sociological,
cultural, anthropological, historical, and system perspectives. This course is divided into three major
areas: family structure, approaches for family intervention, and family therapy.
Course Rationale
This is a practice course, required of all MSW students in the clinical concentration. The course builds
on foundation content and supports the specialization and concentration requirements necessary for
advanced social work practice. In addition, the course prepares students for further graduate study and
the practice of clinical social work. The content meets the requirements for Clinical Social Work
licensure in the state of Virginia.
Course Delivery Method
This course is delivered entirely online with synchronous and asynchronous activities deployed as
required. The primary method of access to this course is the University Blackboard Learning
Management System (LMS) and may be supplemented by other online resources. This course may
also employ conferencing tools such as video conferences or Web conferences to facilitate
communication and interaction with distant and local students.
Prerequisites
There are two prerequisites for this course:
SWK-690B and SWK-771
This template was developed by Dr. Macarena Aspillaga, Course Designer, Norfolk State University, School of Extended Learning_ Rev 3
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Instructional Methods and Strategies
The instructional method use will be inductive, going from specific to general. Learners will acquire new
knowledge through exposure to new material and ideas, as well as reflecting on these ideas and
concepts.
The following instructional strategies and methods will be used to achieve the learning objectives:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Lectures
Class discussions
Role playing
Audio-visual presentations
Collaborative learning
Case study
Assigned readings
Blackboard (on-line delivery)
Computer Literacy Requirements
To successfully complete this course you must possess:

A basic knowledge of computers. For example, understanding files and folders to upload or
download course content is absolutely essential. Basic computer literacy classes (CSC-150) are
available on campus as elective courses. Students deficient in the necessary computer skills
should consider taking such classes.

An understanding of the Web and its resources, such as the library and online research tools
accessed through a Web browser.

Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, such as Word and PowerPoint; this is absolutely
essential for your academic success.

Familiarity with NSU's e-mail system to guarantee effective communications with both
instructors and classmates. All NSU students have been assigned an e-mail account and are
expected to access it regularly via the Web.

Knowledge of Blackboard Learning Management System (LMS), which is mandatory for this
course.
For those of you not familiar with the Blackboard LMS, an online orientation can be accessed by selfregistering in Blackboard. The course name is "Blackboard Student Training." Additional assistance
with Blackboard can be obtained through the Blackboard Central Help Desk at bbtechsupport@nsu.edu
or by phone at 757-823-2328 M - F 8AM - 6PM at the Lyman Beecher Brooks Library (LBBL), suite 3007.
Addressing your computer skills will greatly enhance your learning experience, reducing wasted time and
frustration for yourself and your instructors. Please feel free to contact the Office of Information
Technology (OIT) Client Services or the Office of Distance Education for advisement on how to receive
assistance with your computer literacy instructional needs.
This template was developed by Dr. Macarena Aspillaga, Course Designer, Norfolk State University, School of Extended Learning_ Rev 3
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Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, given a scenario or practical exercise and with the use of the appropriate
research you will:
1. Identify the three most predominant dynamics and system of your family of origin and its impact on
attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.
2. Distinguish at least four family structures, functions and interactions and how these differences
influence assessment and intervention.
3. Recognize three of the five approaches for intervening with families.
4. Identify at least one indication and two contraindications for the use of family therapy as the
treatment of choice, and the utility and efficiency of the selected approaches for intervention with
diverse populations
5. Assess a family’s level of functioning, using the appropriate scale for the family size.
6. Apply two selected approaches of family intervention according to each family dynamics.
7. Select an appropriate model of family therapy designed specifically to address African American
families.
Instructional Materials
Required Texts
Bitter, James (2009). SWK-775 Social Work with Families Reader. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.
Nichols, M. & Schwartz, R. (2009). The Essentials of Family Therapy, 4th ed. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn &
Bacon.
Suggested Texts
Boyd-Franklin, Nancy (2003). Black Families in Therapy, 2nd ed. New York: Guilford Press.
Goldenberg, I. & Goldenberg, H. (2008). Family Therapy: An Overview, 7th ed. Belmont, CA:
Brooks/Cole Publishing Company.
Other Sources
Goldenberg, I. (2010). Online Family Therapy; www. Family Therapy online
This template was developed by Dr. Macarena Aspillaga, Course Designer, Norfolk State University, School of Extended Learning_ Rev 3
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NSU Assessment Policy
University Assessment Statement
As part of NSU’s commitment to provide the environment and resources needed for success, you may
be required to participate in a number of university-wide assessment activities. These activities may
include tests, surveys, focus groups, interviews, and portfolio reviews. The primary purpose of these
assessment activities are to determine the extent to which programs and services at NSU are
maintaining a high level of quality and meeting student’s need. Participating students will not be
identified in the analysis of results. Unless indicated by the instructor, results from University
assessment activities will not be computed in student grades.
Proctoring Policy
Students who choose not to come on campus to take their exams, must have exams in online courses
proctored. A proctored exam is one that is administered by an impartial individual (called a proctor) who
monitors and supervises a student while that student is taking an exam. The proctor ensures the
security and integrity of the exam process. Students will be required to submit an Online Course
Proctor Identification Approval Form to each instructor. Once the proctor has been approved by the
instructor, the students will be required to present their Spartan Identification Card and photo
identification to the proctor prior to students receiving the exam. Students are responsible for arranging
a proctor for their exam(s) and all costs incurred for this service.
On-Campus Proctor Schedule for Midterm and Exams
Time
Date
Room
7:30 AM
March 28
Computer Lab Madison 108
Midterm
2:00 PM
May 2
Computer Lab Madison 109
Final Examination
Late Assignments and Make-up Policy
All grades are final; there will be no make-up tests. All assignments and assessments are due by
12PM EST on Sundays each week unless otherwise posted.
Assignments must be submitted on time. Late assignments will be accepted; however, twenty five
(25) points will be deducted for each day it is overdue.
Learner Interaction Policy
You will also be graded regarding the level of your participation and interaction in the classroom--20%
of your grade will be assigned to the level of interaction you display in the classroom. This means,
participating in a weekly discussion, and attending to group meetings and discussions.
The higher the level of interaction you demonstrate the higher the number on your rubric. Interaction
needs to be reflected on questions and/or comments that relate to the lesson at hand; irrelevant
comments will deduct points from your rubric. Remember to be courteous to others, not only when
you speak but in your written comments as well.
This template was developed by Dr. Macarena Aspillaga, Course Designer, Norfolk State University, School of Extended Learning_ Rev 3
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Evaluations
The assessment in this course is done using rubrics; a matrix that uses a descriptive tool that measures
each learning objective in an unbiased manner. This tool allows the instructor to provide qualitative
feedback on designated competency levels. Rubrics also allow you to see beforehand what the
assessment is all about and study accordingly.
This course will have five evaluations broken down into written tests, group evaluations, and a final
exam, as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Test #1 (sessions 3 -5)
Group Presentation 1
Group Presentation 2
Test #2 (sessions 9,10 & 11)
Final Examination (sessions 12,13,14 & 15)
Example of a Rubric
Criteria
Excellent (50)
Organization
of material
Use of
resources
Presentation
of material
Learner
Interaction/
Participation
Overall
Quality
Your presentation was
logical and superbly
organized
Your material was
clear and added to the
content
Your material was
clearly presented
20%
25%
20%
15%
20%
Very Good (30)
Your work had a clear
introduction, body and
conclusion.
Your material did not
connect to the
content
There were some
ideas that did not
connect
Participates equally with You participate in
other group members in some sessions
researching, writing,
leaving others in
and editing
charge of the group
work.
Outstanding overall
Covered all the main
quality. A powerful
points and it was
and memorable
generally well
presentation.
200 points
250 points
200 points
150 points
200 points
Good (20)
Poor (10)
Your presentation was
generally organized, but
lacked some clarity.
Some of your ideas
were inappropriate
The work was poorly
organized or ideas were
presented randomly
Some of your ideas
were incorrect and
inappropriate
The material was
vague and contained
errors
You do not
demonstrate
participation and
interaction in class
The material stated
some concepts, but
lacked some clarity.
Your participation is not
equivalent to that of
others who are in
charge of the work.
Could have put more
effort during the
preparation and design
stages to increase the
overall quality.
Generally sloppy. Weak
presentation skills. You
have the ability to do
much better.
Total Points
Points
___/50
___/50
___/50
___/50
___/50
___/250
Written Work Criteria
All written work is expected to reflect graduate level use of grammar, spelling, and organization of
material. Work with errors of this nature will be penalized. All presentations must reflect graduate level
ability to offer information in an explicit and persuasive manner.
Academic Integrity Standards
Papers are to be free of plagiarism; if any of your papers is found to be plagiarized, you will receive a
deduction of 25% on that area.
This template was developed by Dr. Macarena Aspillaga, Course Designer, Norfolk State University, School of Extended Learning_ Rev 3
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Attendance Policy
For you to receive a passing grade, you must attend at least 85% of the class sessions. This means
you must login at least on 12 of the 14 sessions that do not involve an evaluation procedure.
You could have only 2 early or late exceptions login in or out of class and still pass. The exceptions
can be either at the beginning or end of the session. For instance, a session to be counted as
“attended”, if you login no longer than 10 min after the session has started; the session can also be
counted as attended if you logout no more than 10 min before the class has ended.
Assignments
Group Presentation: Consists of students, working in groups of two (2) to four (4) persons that
present the use of a theoretical approach assigned to them. The group presentation should be
completed within 60 minutes. The discussion must include but is not limited to: 1. leading figures, 2.
theoretical foundations, 3. normal family development, 4. development of dysfunctional behavior, 5.
Goal (s) of the intervention, 6. multicultural and gender issues, and 7. current status of the model. The
evaluation for this presentation will be based upon:
 How well the material is organized
 A demonstration of a thorough knowledge and comprehension of the material
1. The use of resources other than the text.
2. The clarity with which material is presented.
3. The ability of the students to respond to questions from colleagues and/or the instructor.
4. Each group member must demonstrate an obvious role in the development and presentation of
the material.
 Students may refer to notes and audio visual aids but may not primarily read material.
 Other evaluation factors:
1. Use of language
2. Professional demeanor
3. Adherence to time frame
Test #1: The format for this evaluation may consist of both objective and short answer questions. It will
address information from sessions 3-5. It also may include information from the video demonstrations.
Test #2 and Final Examination:
The format for these evaluations will be objective. Test #2 will address information from sessions 9 –11.
While the final examination will be based on materials covered in sessions 12-15.
Grade Scale
950 – 1000 = A
900 – 949 = A850 – 899 = B+
800 – 849 = B
750 – 799 = B700 – 749 = C+
650 – 699 = C
Below 650 = must repeat course
This template was developed by Dr. Macarena Aspillaga, Course Designer, Norfolk State University, School of Extended Learning_ Rev 3
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Calendar of Assignments
Term paper assignments are in boldface type
Thursday, August 28: Family structures and family systems
Thursday, September 11: Family Dynamics
Thursday, September 18: Family lifestyles
Course Outline
Session & Time
Course Description
Session 1
Course orientation
Course description, objectives, requirements and assignments definitions of family
Family social work and family therapy
Class divided into groups for preparations of group presentations
Individuals identified for presentations
(Aug. 26 -10 am)
(Aug. 30 -11pm)
Session 2
(Sep. 9 -10 am)
(Sep. 13 -11pm)
The evolution of family therapy
Origins and growth of family therapy
The perspective of family therapy
Required reading: Nichols & Schwartz, Chapters 1 & 2
Suggested reading: Goldenberg & Goldenberg, Chapter 5
Required viewing: The changing American family: decline or transition
Session 3
(Sep. 16 -10 am)
(Sep. 20 -11pm)
Family development: continuity and change
The stages of family therapy
Family assessment
Required reading: Nichols & Schwartz, Chapter 3
Suggested reading: Goldenberg & Goldenberg, Chapter 2
This template was developed by Dr. Macarena Aspillaga, Course Designer, Norfolk State University, School of Extended Learning_ Rev 3
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Bibliography
Anderson, H. D. (2003). Postmodern Social Construction Therapies. In T. L. Sexton, G. R. Weeks, & M. S.
Robbins (Eds.), Handbook of Family Therapy: The Science and Practice of Working with Families and
Couples. New York: Brunner-Routledge.
Aponte, Harry (1994). Bread Spirit: The therapy with the new poor. New York: Norton & Co.
Aponte, H. J., & Van Deusin, J. M. (1981). Structural Family Therapy. In A. S. Gorman & D. P. Kniskern
Eds.), Handbook of Family Therapy. New York: Brunner/Mazel.
Baumeister, R. F., Zell, A. L., & Tice, D. M. (2007). How emotions facilitate and impair self-regulation. In J. J.
Gross (Ed.), Handbook of Emotion Regulation. New York: Guilford Press.
Becvar, D. & Becvar, R. (2000). Family Therapy: A Systemic Integration, 4th ed. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn
& Bacon Publishing Co.
Bitter, James R. (2009). Theory and Practice of Family Therapy and Counseling. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.
Bograde, M. (1992). Values in Conflict: Challenges to the Family Therapists’ Thinking. Journal of Marital and
Family Therapy. 18:245-256.
Special Instructions & Policies
Disability Statement
In accordance with Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) of 1990, if you have a disability or think you have a disability, we ask that you please contact
the Supporting Students through Disability Services (SDSS) office.
Required Software
Minimum requirements to take this course are a Windows 7, Word 2007, Outlook 2007, and internet
access. You will also need to sign to the course at NSU to have access to blackboard.
Blackboard Instructions
All navigational buttons provide you with information on how to work the system and allow you to
proceed with the rest of the course. It is important that you familiarize yourself with all the navigational
buttons and controls of the Blackboard system.
This template was developed by Dr. Macarena Aspillaga, Course Designer, Norfolk State University, School of Extended Learning_ Rev 3
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Communication
Blackboard Announcements Area
The Blackboard announcements area is specifically designed for communicating with students in this
course. Whenever there are special instructions to all students in this class, such as a class
cancellation, a change in schedule or assignments, etc. a message will be sent via the
announcement page. Please note that the announcements area is a messaging system that relates
only to the members of this class. Announcements for other courses will be contained in the
respective courses announcements area.
You can access your announcements by selecting the “announcements” button, located on the main
page menu. You are required to check the announcements page daily for any new information. Any
message that you need to send to your instructor in this class is best sent via Blackboard email.
Email Policy
NSU email is the only email system to be used for this course; private email addresses cannot be
used. Always title your messages; be sure the subject line reflects the topic of discussion. Email
messages should always be courteous and follow etiquette protocols. You should be respectful to
those who are receiving your email; never send SPAM to other classmates. Remember that these
documents are never deleted from the system and nothing is ever private. Also, always check your
spelling before sending a message.
Discussion Boards
As part of your NSU online experience you will be using the Blackboard Discussion Forum. A good
way of entering a discussion board or chat is to briefly introduce yourself. It is important to keep your
questions and comments relevant to the topic of the discussion; when posting to a discussion board,
you should read prior messages to get a sense of the flow and language of the discussion before
posting your own message. If another person posts a comment or question that is off the subject, do
not reply to the discussion board; if you want to reply, do so via a private e-mail directly to that
person.
When working in groups do not hijack the discussion. Keep paragraphs and messages short and to
the point.
This template was developed by Dr. Macarena Aspillaga, Course Designer, Norfolk State University, School of Extended Learning_ Rev 3
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