Course content

The course deals with the welfare state as a framework for social work. Vocational ethical guidelines and social work values are central. The course aims to provide the students with a basis for being able to reflect critically in the learning process.

Learning outcome

Knowledge - the student

• can recognize and describe the connection between framework/conditions and the practice of social work within the welfare state - can recognize and describe the holistic perspective of social work
• can describe and explain ethics of professional social work - can define and explain empowerment and user perspectives
• can identify and tell about the connection between theory and experience

Skills - the student

• can discover and recognize central theories on social work
• can participate in dialogical conversations
• can become aware of how individuals may solve their problems and overcome difficulties, through mobilizing their own and others' resources
• can participate in cooperation, planning and solving assignments with others in a group
• can recognize how personal values and attitudes may influence professional work.

General competence - the student

• can explain theories in social work
• have seen and become aware of how social work may be practiced in different arenas
• has become aware of and disposed to take on a "resource" perspective when meeting with other people
• can capture and engage in basic professional and ethical dilemmas which contributes to equality in welfare-services
• can consider and be conscious of own presumptions concerning social problems and how these may have influence on professional work.

Learning methods and activities

Lecture, group work/skills training, seminar and field work, as well as group assignment consisting of a written and an oral part.

Compulsory assignments

• 80 % compulsory attendance in group work
• Internship
• Group assessment with presentation

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

The course has study rights requirements, which means that the course is reserved for students who are admitted to the programme Bachelor in Social Work at NTNU.

Course materials

To be announced on Blackboard at the beginning of the course.

Credit reductions