CYW403 - Group Work with Children and Youth

Subject Title
Group Work with Children and Youth

Subject Description
This subject is designed to gain comprehension of group dynamics and group theory. A large majority of the work Child and Youth Workers do with clients will be done in groups. The student is given the opportunity to design, implement and evaluate a group designed specifically for children or adolescents. This subject will enable the student to understand the stages of group development. An emphasis will be placed on increasing the individual learner?s awareness of his/her own style in group settings and as a facilitator. Theories about group dynamics will be heavily supplemented with activities designed to foster an understanding of the group process and to improve group skills.

Credit Status
One credit

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

Upon successful completion of this subject, the learner will be able to:


1. Identify the importance of group goals and demonstrate an awareness of methods to establish group goals.

2. Demonstrate an awareness of the importance of effective communication to group functioning.

3. Demonstrate, in the classroom/group work context, skills in active listening and giving and receiving feedback

4. Identify different leadership styles and their impact on groups.

5. Recognize the importance of open-mindedness in helping groups deal with controversy and formulate creative solutions.

6. Identify different conflict styles and demonstrate competence in constructively negotiating conflicts of interest.

7. Identify how diversity can strengthen a group.

8. Identify and demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical components of the stages group development.

9. Demonstrate an awareness of the unique qualities when working with children and youth in a group format.

10. Demonstrate, using diagrams, models and/or verbal and written explanation, observation skills in identifying group process, noting specific characteristics of individual members in a group

11. Design and formulate and Implement a group for children or youth, utilizing leadership skills in the classroom setting.

Cheating and Plagiarism
Each student should be aware of the College's policy regarding Cheating and Plagiarism. Seneca's Academic Policy will be strictly enforced.

To support academic honesty at Seneca College, all work submitted by students may be reviewed for authenticity and originality, utilizing software tools and third party services. Please visit the Academic Honesty site on http://library.senecacollege.ca for further information regarding cheating and plagiarism policies and procedures.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecacollege.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Disabilities Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.