Motivation to Teach Social Action:
I am interested in participating in this course development program because it aligns with my commitment to creating learning experiences that prepare students to engage deeply with policy, advocacy, and social change. Having taught social work policy classes, I have seen firsthand how thoughtful course design can empower students to understand complex policy environments and translate that knowledge into meaningful social action.
This program offers an opportunity to strengthen my instructional approaches, integrate innovative teaching strategies, and collaborate with colleagues who are equally passionate about advancing social justice through education.
Course Description:
These courses provide an assessment of the history, current issues, programmatic changes, and policy choices that shape social welfare services. The course examines how social welfare policies evolve and influence service delivery. In addition to building students' knowledge of policy structures, the course emphasizes social action as a core component of social work practice. Students critically analyze how policy decisions impact marginalized communities and explore pathways for advocacy, civic engagement, grassroots organizing, and systems‑level change. Through assignments, discussions, and applied learning activities, students develop the skills needed to participate in and lead social action efforts aimed at promoting equity, expanding access, and advancing social justice.
Taught By:
Edwina Jackson
Assistant Professor of Social Work
College of Social Work
Johnson C. Smith University
Read profile here.