Study Guide

Objective

The students will be able to:
• understand different challenges affecting the everyday life of the adult population in Finland
• apply legislation in the field of adult social work
• understand the services, support and benefits available for service users
• empower service users
• use different participatory, socio-pedagogical, community-based work and narrative methods in adult social work

Content

Contents:
• Challenges causing marginalisation e.g. unemployment, homelessness, poverty, loneliness
• Relevant legislation
• Rehabilitative services
• Different participatory, socio-pedagogical, community-based and narrative methods in adult social work

Teaching methods

Lectures and consultation sessions, group work (investigative essay), individual exam and final seminar. Attendance in orientation and final seminar is compulsory .

Location and time

August-September 2023.

Materials

Andy Mantell and Andrew Mantell (2009): Social Work Skills with Adults and 5 scientific articles:
Ilari Ilmakunnas: Is there a welfare trap? Duration dependence in social assistance recipiency among young Finns. 
Kirsi Juhila: Talking back to stigmatized identities – Negotiation of culturally dominant categorizations in interviews with shelter residents.
Jarmo Kallunki & Semi Puronen: Intergenerational transmission of cultural capital in Finland.
Suvi Linnanvirta, Christian Kroll & Helena Blomberg: The perceived legitimacy of a basic income among Finnish food aid recipients.
Suvi Raitakari & Kirsi Günther: Clients accounting for the responsible self in interviews

Completion alternatives

-

Employer connections

-

Exam schedules

Individual exam retakes on general exam days.

International connections

-

Student workload

135 hours.

Content scheduling

I period of Autum semester.

Assessment methods and criteria

Evaluation Criteria for the Investigative Essay:

1. Research Depth: The essay includes a variety of credible and relevant sources, such as academic papers, books, articles, reports, and reputable websites. The evidence presented to support the main points stated in the essay are relevant and sufficient.

2. Essay question: The main essay question is clear and specific. The question effectively communicates the main argument or investigative aims of the essay.

3. Organization and Structure: The flow of ideas stated in the essay are clear and logical. There are well-developed paragraphs and effective transitions between sections. There are headings, sub-headings and other structural elements that enhance the readability and comprehension of the essay. The introduction is effective in capturing the reader's attention and setting up the essay's purpose. The conclusion summarizes the key points and offers insights or recommendations.

4. Analysis and Critical Thinking: The essay provides a balanced and objective assessment of the phenomenon, considering multiple perspectives and counterarguments. There is an evaluation and reflection of assumptions, biases, and possible logical fallacies.

5. Clarity and Coherence: The main points and ideas are communicated effectively, using appropriate vocabulary, sentence structure, and grammar. The use of language engages the reader, maintains a consistent tone, and conveys complex information clearly.

6. Originality and Creativity: The essay presents a creative approach to the investigative process. The essay utilized either an innovative methods, or fresh perspectives that add value to the overall discussion of the phenomenon.

7. Ethical Considerations: Ethical standards are followed during the investigation and presentation of the ideas in the essay. Plagiarism is avoided, objectivity is maintained, accuracy and integrity of the information presented is ensured.

8. Conclusions and Recommendations: The conclusion effectively summarizes the main findings, relates them back to the essay questions, and provides insights or recommendations based on the investigation's results

9. Formatting and Citations: The essay adheres to the DIAK assignment layout and references guidelines.


Evaluation of the exam is based on student's contribution and analysis of the group work and competence to combine one's own thinking with given study materials.

Evaluation scale

0-5