7218.09 - Person, Institution and Society

7218.09

Person, Institution and Society

15

In broad strokes, this course covers the interconnections between persons, both as individuals and groups, institutions and society. The interplay between interest groups in the field of social education will also be explored, e.g. in juridical power, administration and interest groups. The final major topic is cooperation, both within the field of social education and in relation to other professional fields. On a foundational level, this course shall enable students to interpret and work professionally in the contexts, which condition the daily work of social educators. In conjunction with this, the course aims at inspiring students to constructively influence and shape these contexts in Faroese society. On completing the course, students should be able to - understand the importance of social and institutional contexts for people, for the field of social education and for the vocation of social educators in a democratic society - use the theories, conceptualities and modes of operation, which are commonly used in analysing the interplay between persons, institutions and society - use research results in order to cooperate on an increasingly professional basis with colleagues and people in other professional fields - work professionally in light of existing laws and regulations - conduct a qualitative interview, based on scientific premises

The course will explore the role persons as individual and in groups have in a society – both nationally and internationally. We will especially study the interplay between social educators, clients, parents or legal guardians, civil servants and politicians. Then we will turn to how the work of social educators is contingent upon circumstances such as historical context, physical environment, political convictions, financial constraints, and ”structural changes.” We will also put the spotlight on cooperation and leadership among social educators and their cooperation with people working in other professions. The main topics of the course are: society, historical development in social politics and institutions, the welfare society, politics, legal framework, institutional culture, and leadership. Another major theme we will work with is the interplay between clients, parents and legal guardians, administrators, social educators, and people within other professions, who work with children, youth and people with special needs. A main emphasis throughout will be on interconnections, interplay and cooperation among the topics mentioned above.

Students, in groups of two, write a paper. The paper is to be no more than 15 pages and should be based on the theories and other material covered in the course, its study groups and data gained in qualitative interviews with social educators and/or others. External examiners will be used. Grades will be awarded according to the current grading scale.