Internationalisation and Social Work

This course critically examines relevant questions related to social work in an international context. It discusses the global processes that shape social work practices and determine the nature of the social issues examined. The course explores different theories of global social work and discourses on social issues, vulnerabilities and interventions within social work, and it critically examines the implications of international theoretical and practical applications. The course also examines social work in different global socio-political contexts by mapping the structures, cultures and ideologies underlying the different ways in which social work and its professional development are organised. Different models for social work are discussed and contextualised, for example individual-oriented work and international social work. The course also addresses theoretical perspectives, such as the globalisation of social problems, social justice, oppression, social development, empowerment and anti-discriminatory practices, which enable the ability to critically reflect on the practices of international social work. It discusses the challenges facing education in social work. It examines the international guidelines for social work and the diversification of social work. It also discusses whether there are or should be universal values applicable to social work (regardless of whether these are reflected in current ethics documents). The course includes a reflection on cultural relativity and multicultural practice in relation to social work.