Values Walk

Name: Cécile Dutreix

Cécile is not the original author of this idea but has used it effectively in her teaching. The original author is not known.

Field or discipline: Social Work
Program: Bachelor of Social Work
Course: Human Service Provision
Year level: 1
Class size: 25

Activity type: Values Walk

Aim: Explore a range of perspectives in values, including social justice and the implications for services in a multicultural, non-racist and gender sensitive context. Developing graduate qualities 1,2,5 and 6.

Description: Students are asked to reflect on their values and position in relation to the following statements (ie strongly agree to strongly disagree). The students move from one side of the room to the other depending on their position.
· Women should stay at home when their children are young
· Capital punishment should be reintroduced
· Divorce is too easy
· People on the dole are lazy
· Anyone can go to university
· Abortion is wrong
· Teachers should be banned if they are known to be gay or lesbian
· Refugees are queue jumpers
· Children raised in 2 parent families are better off than children raised in single parent families

People may choose to discuss why they took this position (but are not required to if they do not wish to). This generates discussion which leads to increased knowledge and understanding of differing values and beliefs.

Application: This exercise enables students to explore and challenge their own values, prejudices and assumptions. If there is a lack of respect and courtesy within the group, this can disintegrate into argument and personal attacks. Students should be prepared by deciding on group norms prior to this exercise and in particular discussing the need for respect of differing views and beliefs.