Syllabus

Title
4848 Social Policy
Instructors
ao.Univ.Prof. Dr. August Österle
Contact details
Type
PI
Weekly hours
2
Language of instruction
Englisch
Registration
02/20/24 to 02/28/24
Registration via LPIS
Notes to the course
Subject(s) Bachelor Programs
Dates
Day Date Time Room
Monday 03/11/24 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM TC.4.18
Monday 03/18/24 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM TC.4.18
Monday 04/08/24 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM TC.4.18
Monday 04/15/24 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM TC.4.18
Monday 04/22/24 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM TC.4.18
Monday 04/29/24 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM TC.4.18
Monday 05/06/24 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM TC.4.18
Monday 05/13/24 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM TC.4.18
Contents

Topics covered in this course:

  • social policy, social welfare and the welfare state: objectives, principles, actors, policies,
  • comparative welfare state analysis: comparing welfare states, welfare state models, 
  • European social policy: EU social policy, the impact of EU integration on national social policies,
  • sustainability of the welfare state. 

In addition, student group projects will deal with selected social policy issues in comparative perspective. 

Learning outcomes

The course provides a framework for understanding, reviewing and critical analysis of alternative approaches to the study and the practice of social policy. After attending this course, students will be able to:

  • outline and apply the conceptual foundations of social policy,
  • identify alternative welfare state models,
  • characterise social policies in selected countries,
  • evaluate the role of EU social policies,
  • analyse and discuss social policy approaches against the background of major economic and social policy objectives,
  • understand and discuss academic social policy papers. 

In addition, students will:

  • gain practice and improve their skills in writing, presenting and discussing their ideas.
Attendance requirements

This being a ‘course with continuous assessment (PI)’, the university requires students to attend at least 80% of all classes for completing the course successfully. Ideally you don’t miss any classes. If you are unable to attend a session, please let me know before that session.

Teaching/learning method(s)

The first part of the course is based on inputs by the lecturer and group discussions. In the second part of the course, groups of students will focus on selected social policy areas, present comparative analyses and discuss these in sub-group and/or plenary debates. Activities include:

  • lectures
  • team-based learning
  • group discussions
  • oral presentations
  • written papers 
Assessment

The final grade is based on: 

  • exam: 40%
  • group project with oral presentation and discussion (group): 30%
  • written assignment (individual): 20%
  • active participation in class: 10% 

Grades (point ranges):

  • Excellent (1): 90-100 points
  • Good (2): 80-89 points
  • Satisfactory (3):  65-79 points
  • Sufficient (4): 50-64 points
  • Fail (5): 0-49 points
Prerequisites for participation and waiting lists

This is a course offered for WU bachelor students (in the Economics and Socio-Economics Major program), and for incoming students as part of the English Program.

Readings

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Availability of lecturer(s)

Email: august.oesterle@wu.ac.at

Meetings by appointment 

Last edited: 2024-01-30



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