Varieties of welfare production (3op)

Osaamistavoitteet

During the course, students will familiarize themselves with the idea and practices of the Nordic welfare state and welfare production. In addition, students will take a closer and critical look at some services. At the end of the course, students will be able to understand differences and similarities between welfare state models and reflect on the practices of welfare production in light of the ideals of a welfare state. Finally, students will increase their understanding of working with social welfare clients.

Sisältö

At the beginning of the course students learn the main principles and goals of a Nordic welfare state. Despite the idea of a welfare state, welfare production is predominantly not a state affair. Instead, local councils, non-governmental organizations, enterprises and families are essential parts of the Nordic model of welfare.
A Nordic welfare state aims at equality and even distribution of welfare. The means for these goals include universalistic and rather generous benefits and a wide range of social programs.
After leaning the basic principles, students will look more closely some parts of the Nordic ways of producing welfare, for example child welfare, special needs education, mental health care and elderly care services.

Esitietovaatimukset

No prerequisites but ability to read, talk and write in English are essential skills during the course.

Arviointikriteerit, tyydyttävä (1)

Grade 1-2
The student participates in the field trips, lectures and discussions as well as reads the given materials. In addition the assigned papers are finished on time using experiences from the field trips and the study materials. References are marked in the papers.
Grade 3-4
In addition to the above mentioned the students in able to combine empirical and theoretical knowledge in the discussions and in the written papers.
Grade 5
In addition to the above mentioned the student is able to critically reflect and question the status quo and write scientifically sound papers.

Oppimateriaalit

The study material consists of up to date scientific articles on selected topics. Materials will be announced during the course.

Toteutustavat

Lectures, discussions and reading advanced scientific texts.