Basics of social work (3cr)

Objective

Upon completion of the course, students will be competent to define the concept of social work and recognize its different meanings and applications. They will use the concept of social work as their frame of reference for their work as Bachelors of Social Services. Students will be able to recognize functions of social work in society, to name its objectives and to describe its historical development. They will become aware of the special features in social work expertise and of social models for various challenging situations. They will recognize the multi-disciplinary knowledge base of social work and learn to describe different types of knowledge required in social work. Students will be able to to name different orientations and working methods for client work. They will be able to identify the levels of the individual, community and society in social work.

Content

- Social work, the concept, its nature and function in society
- Bachelors of Social Services, their role in social work
- Social work theories, development of social work, types of knowledge, conception of the human being
- Social work, levels of the individual, community and society, citizen-based and area-based approach to work
- Expertise in social work

Qualifications

No previous studies are required.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Grade 1-2:
Students are able to produce an assignment of adequate length describing their knowledge foundation of social work, with reference to the concepts and course literature they have studied. In addition to summarizing the literature, students are able to produce some analysis of their own. They have a correct understanding of the essential concepts and are mainly capable of correct referencing. Students participate in study circles and in producing memoes and a poster. Students attend lectures.
Grade 3-4:
In addition to the requirements above, students are able to combine course contents with their own thinking and to demonstrate their command of essential concepts when describing their knowledge foundation.
Grade 5:
In addition to the requirements above, students include practical examples in their assignment. Their description of their knowledge foundation is wide-ranging, fluidly integrating the concepts learnt and profoundly understood.

Materials

- Beckett, C. 2006: Essential Theory for Social Work Practice. (s. 1-112). Sage Publications.
Availability: http://tiny.cc/iammdx

- Raunio, K. 2004. Olennainen sosiaalityössä. Gaudeamus Kirja. (s.100-130).
Availability: http://tiny.cc/6bmmdx

- Toikko, T. 2005. Sosiaalityön ideat (partly).
Availability: http://tiny.cc/bdmmdx

e-kirja
Availability: http://tiny.cc/5gmmdx

Teaching methods

Lectures and group assignments, study circle, independent assignment.