Introduction to Social Work in Finland (5cr)

Objective

After finishing the course, the student is able to understand the development of social work as a discipline, profession, and practice in Finland. Additionally, students gain an understanding of the main actors and sectors of social work in Finland, get an overview of how the present social work is managed, what are the main topics of social work research, and what does the structural social work means.

Content

An overview of the history and the main sectors of social work in Finland. Social work within the Finnish society system, Child welfare, Social work with adults, Gerontological social work, Structural social work, Managerialism in social work, and Social work discipline, education and research.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Fail: Performance is highly deficient or erroneous. The work may be based on serious misunderstandings.

Sufficient and satisfactory (1-2): Performance is lacking in scope, superficial, or corresponds poorly to the assignment. The author merely lists things out of context or addresses them one-sidedly. The work may contain errors or obscurities.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

Good and very good (3-4): Performance corresponds to the assignment, manifesting comprehension and a skill to analyse and justify. The author has addressed the issue comprehensively. The work may contain some deficiencies.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Excellent (5): Performance delineates an extensive whole and the author can apply knowledge in a multifaceted way or place it in various contexts. The work manifests independency and insight, and it is a flawless entity that involves justified thinking or critical contemplation. The work is well written and implemented.

Materials

Essential reading, video lectures and other material are provided in Moodle.

Execution methods

Online course in Moodle.

Accomplishment methods

The module is planned to take approximately 7 weeks. Active participation in the course requires completing the weekly learning tasks and submitting a learning diary.