Teaching starts Autumn

Language of instruction Norwegian

Recommended previous knowledge A basic knowledge of ethics from bachelor level.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course, the student should

• have a thorough knowledge of ethical theories and studies that are emphasised within the subject, and an overview of other ethical theories and studies with relevance to working with people.
• be able to interpret their field in the light of ethical perspectives, concretise ethical challenges in working with people, and understand and analyse these challenges from the perspectives emphasised in the subject.

Course contents

The course focuses on ethical challenges in public services related to the subject of welfare problems and social change addressed in the compulsory courses of the masters. Ethical problems in the profession working with other people will be discussed and normative challenges connected to professional work will be emphasised. The tension between general quality requirements and the meeting with individuals - between principles and experience - will be central. This focus implies a special attention to empirical ethical studies.

The presumption is that ethical judgment is best understood in a combination of practical experience and theoretical knowledge.
The course will deal with different ethical perspectives and movements, and have an emphasis on a phenomological approach.

Central topics:

• Phenomenology and ethics
• Perspective on humanity and its influence when working with people
• The meeting with the different other
• When norms are not shared
• Ethical dimensions in the relationship between the professional and the client
• The dialogue's various kinds and challenges
• User participation
• Liberation or discipline?
• When the user is a child
• Justice

Teaching methods and workload Lectures and group work with assignments and/or group presentations. The course is taught in intensive periods during the semester

Examination requirement

Approved individual assignment with an oral presentation in groups.

Assessment methods and criteria

Individual oral examination (45-60 minutes). Graded assessment

Priv. evaluation Ja

Type of course Theoretical

Level of course Second cycle (master)

Year of study Normally second year of master's programme

Name of lecturer/contact person Associate Professor Solveig Botnen Eide