Contemporary society in theoretical frameworks (3cr)

Objective

Students will learn to identify phenomena in society and community that contribute to the relationship between the individual and society. They will be able to discuss these issues using current sociological concepts. Students will know how to analyse the association between social change and welfare of communities and individuals. They will learn to analyse structures that can cause inequality and deprivation within society and they will be able to make use of new theoretical knowledge in sociology when solving problems that require professional experise in the social field.

Content

- Individualization
- Life policy
- Sense of community
- Trust and social capital

Qualifications

The 1st and 2nd year studies of the degree programme in social work.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Grade 1-2:
Students are able to outline the main features of the concepts and theories studied during the course, but their competence is still narrow. They are able to name some associations between the theories and the welfare of individuals and communities, but their thinking is limited to simple and everyday, rather self-evident examples. Students meet the minimum requirements set for the study circle activities.
Grade 3-4:
Students can extensively explain sociological concepts and theories. They are able to point out connections between social change and welfare of communities and individuals, using theoretical concepts in their assignments and in study circle activities. Students confidently apply theoretical concepts when they reflect on problems that require expertise in the social field. Students participate in the study circle actively and conscientiously.
Grade 5:
Students understand the multiple perspectives of sociological concepts and theories. They are able to profoundly analyse connections between social change and welfare of communities and individuals, using theoretical concepts. Students extensively apply theoretical concepts when they reflect on problems that require expertise in the social field and find new innovative perspectives. Students contribute to study circle activities very actively and constructively.

Materials

To be announced at the beginning of the study course. Part of the literature will be in English.

Teaching methods

Introductory lectures and online learning. The major part of the study course takes place online.