The course familiarises students with the professional practices of social work. The objective is for them to understand client participation as a central starting point in client work and the significance of social functioning in an interaction situation. Students learn the ethical principles of social work and their significance in practical activities. Furthermore, they practise critical reflection.

The course includes discussion on the significance of interaction, encountering and one’s own activities in client work. Further topics covered include evaluation of a client’s social situation, systematic working and client work documentation. Students become aware of issues related to ethics and the exercise of power, as well as the tensions caused by them in social work.

The course is implemented as the Heikki Waris Institute’s Praxis activities together with the social work units involved. The modes of study include work in small groups, seminars and written assignments based on literature and practice.