This course aims at critical exploration of current issues in social work in an international context. The course involves learning about global processes shaping social work practices as well as the nature of social topics. It explores various global (or cross-cultural) social work theories/discourses on social topics, vulnerability and social work interventions and critically scrutinizes the effects of cross-national theoretical and practical applications.
It includes learning about social work in global socio-political contexts, mapping the structures, cultures and ideologies behind the variety of ways of organising social work and its professional development. Ideologies such as individualism, collectivism, liberalism, are discussed as elements shaping social work. Various social work models are discussed and contextualized, like casework and community work. Other theoretical perspectives that can contribute to an ability to critically reflect on international social work practice include the globalization of social problems, social justice, oppression, social development and anti-discriminatory practice. Challenges to social work education are examined as well. It also includes learning about common international standards as well as diversifications of social work and discusses if there are, or should be, universally applicable sets of values (reflected, or not, in the current ethics documents) for social work.
This course contains occasions that are included in a degree programme at Umeå university and applies only to those of you who are admitted to the programme. You will receive information about application times and what applies to you from your institution.
The mandatory meetings take place digitally via Zoom. Other teaching is given via the Canvas learning platform in the form of recorded lectures, web-based seminars and exercises.
Required Knowledge
For students in the social work program, the requirement is that you have received a passing grade in examinations, completed and registered program courses, totaling 150 credits (semester 1-3, 90 credits, semester 4-6, 60 credits) In addition, ongoing studies at semester 6 are required.
