Course content

The course will focus on the interplay between the individual and the group, and group processes seen from a guidance and counselling perspective. The course aims to promote knowledge about, and give competence in, group communication. This involves both leading and guiding group processes, and understanding group dynamics and conflict and cooperation strategies. The teaching of this course will have both a theoretical and practical focus.
There will be an introduction to and training in a method for clarifying one’s working and communications styles (LIFO®-method). Through external work practice, the course also aims to provide students with an understanding of, and insight into, one or more areas of practice where counselling and guidance constitute a part of the enterprise. The practice supervisor will arrange for students to obtain knowledge about, and competence in, relevant areas of practice.

Learning outcome

The goal is to give insight in and knowledge about central group counselling theories and group dynamic development perspectives. This will give a foundation for developing strategies for groups, teams and organisations, with critical reflection on what promotes or prevents such development. The students will experience being in group processes, and learn to read, stimulate and guide team and group development.

Learning methods and activities

Teaching method and activities: Four hours per week, 3-day group process course, 3 day course on LIFO®-method (6 hours per day). About 20% of the lectures and plenary activities will be in English.
Compulsory activity: Participation in 80 % of the teaching program, in group process course, in course on LIFO®-method and in external practice. A final presentation and evaluation of the practice, based on the submitted compulsory practice report. Grading: pass - fail.
Assessment: Two days written group exam (take home exam) with oral group exam. Grading: A-F.

The course is reserved for students admitted to Master of Science in Counselling ("studierettskrav").

Compulsory assignments

• 80% attendance in external work practice
• Practice report: Presentation and evaluation.
• 80% attendance in LIFO-method course
• 80 % approved attendance in lectures
• 80 % approved attendance in group process course

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

See formal requirements. PED3031 is recommended taken before PED3034.

Required previous knowledge

Must have the same admission requirements as for the master program in counselling.

Credit reductions