Theories in Social Work Research (5cr)

Course unit code: SSOSKV0006

General information

Credits: 5 cr

Teaching language: english

Objective

The course aims to examine social work research, social work theories and theoretical concepts applied in social work research.

After completion of the course the student is able to
- identify the historical background and current discussions in social work research
- identify different social work theories, theoretists and theoretical concepts applied in social work research
- analyze social phenomenona and social processes using theory and theoretical concepts
- apply theory and theoretical concepts in master's thesis research.

Content

Historical background and current discussion in social work research. Key meta theories and theorists in social scientific and social work 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

Garrett: Social Work and Social Theory: Making Connections (2013/2018).
Gray & Webb (toim.): Social Work Theories and Methods, 2nd Edition (2013).
Harrikari & Rauhala: Towards Glocal Social Work in the Era of Compressed Modernity (2019).

Other course material is provided in Moodle.