Participation and social incluson in social work and child welfare

Welfare services are challenged to improve services by making them more oriented towards participation, social inclusion and citizenship for people in marginalized positions. The complexity in individuals` situations and contexts affect welfare services. Political and scientific discussions emphasize participation and co-creation between actors such as individuals, civil society, NGOs, private and public sectors to make social just and sustainable services and welfare.

The participation and co-creation take place at individual, service and system levels. Relationships between participative actors at all levels are decisive in the processes of co-creation of welfare. Participation by different actors contribute to and support the knowledge axis that deals with changing marginalized positions. Participation may increase democratic processes in co-creation of welfare services and lead to social inclusion and empowerment. The course will emphasize relevant theoretical perspectives on participation and social inclusion.

Knowledge - The PhD-candidate

• Has in-depth knowledge of different approaches of participation and social inclusion

Skills - The PhD-candidate

• Can handle complex academic issues and challenge established knowledge of participation and social inclusion

Competences - The PhD-candidate

• Can give well-structured presentations of basic qualities and knowledge related to participation and social inclusion for people in marginalized positions.

Lectures, seminars, PhD-candidates` presentations of their papers and discussions in groups.

Participation is compulsory, and the candidates are expected to attend the whole course. A minor absence (20 %) can be accepted under certain circumstances.

A draft of the essay in advance before the course, participating in group work and be an opponent of another candidate`s draft of essay.

The teaching can be cancelled or changed if there are fewer than 5 registered, and/or that the department of social work does not have teaching capacity.