Ethics of social work (3cr)

Objective

Students will be able to name basic ethical concepts, ethical theories and principles of moral and sustainable development. They will learn to define values and ethical principles underpinning work in the social field. Under supervisioon, students will reflect on problematic ethical situations in social work. They will become aware of the ethical responsibility of professionals in the social field.

Content

- Ethics, morality, values
- Ethical theories, moral development
- Sustainable development and social responsibility
- Ethical principles in the social field
- The professional's values and ethical responsibility

Qualifications

No previous studies are required.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Grade 1-2:
Students are able to name basic ethical concepts, ethical theories and principles of moral and sustainable development. They know how to define values and ethical principles underpinning work in the social field. Under supervision, students reflect on problematic ethical situations in social work. They are aware of the ethical responsibility of professionals in the social field.
Grade 3-4:
Students can explain and argue for basic ethical concepts, ethical theories and principles of moral and sustainable development. They know how to explain values and ethical principles underpinning social work. Students are able to explain their actions from the perspective of professional ethics. Together with other students, they reflect on problematic ethical situations in social work and know how to solve conflicts in social work practice. They are able to act in a responsible manner.
Grade 5:
Students are able to extensively analyse basic ethical concepts, ethical theories and principles of moral and sustainable development. They know how to evaluate values and ethical principles underpinning social work practice. They are able to extensively, even critically evaluate their actions from the perspective of professional ethics. They know how to explore and evaluate their values and attitudes from multiple perspectives, critically and constructively. Students are able to discuss ethical issues in social work constructively and critically. They are able to solve ethical conflicts independently and in co-operation with others. They know how to evaluate the principles of professional ethics, even in complex and unpredictable situations.

Materials

- Juujärvi S.& Myyry L.& Pesso K. 2007. Eettinen herkkyys ammatillisessa toiminnassa. Helsinki:Tammi.
Availability: http://tiny.cc/28u9cx

- Arki, arvot, elämä, etiikka. Sosiaalialan ammattieettiset ohjeet. 2005. www.talentia.fi.

- Lastentarhanopettajan ammattietiikka. 2004. www.lastentarha.fi

- Lecturer's material

Teaching methods

Lectures, group discussions, assignments, visiting lecturer, exam.