Empowerment and social advocacy in socio-pedagogical workLaajuus (5 ECTS)

Objective

Students are aware of the theoretical foundations of empowerment and social advocacy. In their work, students can use socio-pedagogical means to empower individuals and communities and enhance their participation in a culturally sensitive way. Students understand how to use the means of social advocacy and create participatory involvement and communality supporting citizenship. They can express themselves in various ways and demonstrate their competence by participating in public discussions. Students are aware of their own values in client work and and can identify the significance of power as well as ethical value conflicts in their work.

Content

Theories of empowerment. Power and use of power. Various channels for social influence and advocacy. Citizen participation in society. The challenges of a pluralistic society for socio-pedagogical work. Tension between individuals and communities. Media education, media skills, social media. Language used to empower clients.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Satisfactory (1-2)
Students master professional concepts, and they justify their choices using the comprehensive knowledge base, based on the client’s needs. Students assess systematically the prerequisites and consequences of their own actions.

Students act independently and professionally aiming at goals set to them in their operating environment as well as apply working methods appropriately and safely.

Students work according to professional ethics as well as commit themselves to the group, enhancing its functioning.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

Good (3-4)
Students master professional concepts and make choices together with the client using the comprehensive knowledge base. They also assess and develop their own functioning systematically.

Students act independently and professionally aiming at goals set to them in their operating environment. They also apply working methods flexibly and safely.

Students work according to professional ethics considering the characteristics of various situations, and in their work they commit themselves to the code of professional conduct.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Excellent (5)
Students master professional concepts and make choices together with the client using the comprehensive knowledge base, in changing environments. They also assess their own functioning and produce knowledge to develop their operating environment.

Students act independently and professionally and develop their working and operating environments together with other actors.

Students work according to professional ethics considering the characteristics of complex and unpredictable situations. Their work develops and renews professional procedures and practices.