Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

Norwegian

Recommended previous knowledge

As for the Master programme

Learning outcomes

After completing the course the student should be able to:

 

• have in-depth knowledge of what promotes and hinders professional development

• have solid ethical knowledge and be able to reflect independently on ethical challenges

• be able to apply knowledge of different approaches for the development of professionals, services, the organization and the profession in an advanced and an independent manner

• be able to apply knowledge of professional development at different levels in social work in an advanced and independent manner.

Contents

The course focuses on professional development in social work. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding how social workers can help to improve the situation of clients. Reflective processes are facilitated. Exploration of experiences and stories is used as a methodological approach. Knowledge about how professional empathy and attitudes are crucial for being able to understand the client's situation, have a central position. Likewise, knowledge about the frameworks and knowledge about governance regimes, are also crucial.

 

Central themes:

 

  • The relationship between empathy, understanding and application in professional development.
  • Developing relationships in practice through collaborative research, action research. practice research and practitioner research
  • Learning organizations and development work
  • The potential and narrative ethics of narratives
  • Development of professional conversation
  • Clients as contributors in knowledge and service development
  • Value awareness in social work
  • Judgment and ethical reflection.

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures, seminars, group work and group guidance. Expected working hours are 270 hours.

Examination requirements

Passed work requirements that outline an event / narrative that is linked to relevant theory and shows how this has significance for professional incorporation into social work. Further information will be provided in Canvas.

Examinations

An individual personal / professional essay, reflecting on an event / story / situation that is relevant to social work. This is a task that is being worked on throughout the spring semester. Size approx. 6500 words. Graded A-F.

Student evaluation

The study programme manager, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 4.1. Information about evaluation method for the course will be posted on Canvas.

Reduction of Credits

This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:

Course Reduction of Credits
SO-406 – Knowledge, Service and Professional Development in Social Work. 10
PSY905 – Competence and Practice Development. 10
SO-403 – Knowledge-based and Evidence-based Practice. 5
SO-404 – Ethics in Services. 5
SO-405 – Understanding of Knowledge in Social Work/Child Protection. 5
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 6:58:09 AM