An introduction to social work

Instruction is in the form of lectures, groupwork and field studies with seminars. The course introduces social work as subject, science and professional field. The emergence, meaning and construction of social work are treated along with its multidisciplinary knowledge base. Special emphasis is placed on the importance of a critical approach, the ethical dimensions of social work and the foundational principles of legislation and management pertaining to social work. Central theoretical and everyday concepts, and professional roles in social work, including social care, are treated as well as its fields of knowledge and professional practice. The practical components of groupwork and field studies introduce students to social work in practice with an emphasis on the range of the field and future professional roles. Students are expected to combine and apply theoretical knowledge of scientific procedures such as the research process and methods with the practical components of the course and forms of presentation. Groupwork, field studies and presentation of results at seminars are mandatory components, aiming to give students the opportunity to develop knowledge of the professional field and skills in integrating and applying basic academic and critical approaches.