SSA4000 Social Work Theories Course description

The course elaborates and exemplifies how different theoretical perspectives can be applied to different social work issues. The course emphasizes the relevance of theory in the development of knowledge. In the teaching, emphasis is placed on problematizing professionalism, knowledge, dilemmas in social work, holistic understanding of problems and the meaning of contextualization in social work. In addition, the course shows development lines, overarching contexts and contradictions within the field. 

None. 

After completing the course, the student should have the following overall learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence

Knowledge

The student have

• in-depth knowledge about the development of social work as a profession and discipline, and advanced knowledge about social work as a research field
• in-depth knowledge about the connection between the traditions of the profession, contemporary problems in social work and future challenges in social work
• in-depth knowledge about classic and contemporary theory in social work, the relation between them and their application in social work today
• in-depth knowledge about the knowledge foundation of social work, including ethics, and how it influences research and the practice of professional social work
• in-depth knowledge about different kinds of power and discrimination, also in consideration to relations between social workers and different client groups.

Skills

The student

• have in-depth knowledge about and understanding of classic and contemporary theory in social work
• can analyze and discuss core social work problems, based upon current research and theory in social work
• can evaluate the practice of social work in different contexts and at different levels , based upon current research and theory in social work
• can analyze current and future professional and theoretical problems, based upon the traditions of social work

General competence

The student

• can reflect critically on the practice of social work and on his/her own research approach 
• demonstrates insight into key value-based and ethical issues in social work
• can produce written works in accordance with academic and scientific requirements

The teaching methods used are lectures, group assignments and discussions. Students self study comes in addition.

In order for the student to take the exam, a written group assignment must have been approved. 5 pages is the maximum length of the assignment, including references and bibliography.

If the group assignment has not been approved, the student-group will be given the opportunity to submit an improved version one time by the given deadline.

The exam in the course is an individual home exam over a period of four days. The exam paper must have a scope of nine pages (+/- 10 per cent). Font and font size: Calibri 12 points. Line spacing: 1.5.

All aids are permitted, as long as the rules for source referencing are complied with. 

Grade scale A-F. 

The exam papers are assessed by one internal and one external examiner. 

At least 25% of the exam papers will be assessed by two examiners. The grades awarded for the papers assessed by two examiners form the basis for determining the level for all the exam papers.