Class Theory and Methodology of Social Work II

This Course Unit provides the conceptual, methodological and ethical-political foundations of Social Work intervention, fostering an understanding of professional identity, specificity and key theoretical-methodological frameworks. It focuses on intervention with individuals and families, addressing the methodological process, intervention methods and tools, case management, resource mobilisation, and relational and ethical competences. It also promotes critical reflection on contemporary challenges, including emerging vulnerabilities, cultural diversity, integrated practice, digital transformation and professional identity. The Course Unit is articulated with Social Work Theory and Methodology I and III, ensuring a coherent progression from intervention with individuals and families to group intervention.

Not applicable

I. Conceptual and Methodological Foundations of Professional SW: professional intervention; professional identity and specificity; theoretical-methodological, technical-operational and ethical-political dimensions; theoretical and methodological frameworks (classical and contemporary models and cross-cutting perspectives); intervention process; intervention methods and tools; professional relationship, communication and ethics II. Professional SW with Individuals and Families: individuals and families in contemporary society; assessment of social situations; intervention planning and implementation; case management; mobilisation of personal, family, community and institutional resources; empowerment, autonomy, monitoring and evaluation III. Contemporary Perspectives: current trends and challenges; emerging vulnerabilities; participation and co-production; integrated and interprofessional practice; cultural diversity; digital transformation; professional identity and development.

The Course Unit adopts active, student-centred teaching and learning methodologies, promoting participation, autonomy and critical reflection. Theoretical-practical classes combine interactive teaching with the analysis and discussion of case studies, problem-solving, simulation of intervention situations, collaborative work and debate. Links with professional practice are fostered through the analysis of concrete situations, participation of invited practitioners, thematic seminars and other activities involving contact with real intervention contexts. Where appropriate, digital resources and collaborative platforms are used to support the teaching and learning process, promoting the development of analytical, relational, reflective and professional competences.

De Robertis, C. (2021 Metodologia de Intervenção em Trabalho Social. Porto Ed Dominelli, L. (2002) Anti-Oppressive Social Work Theory and Practice. Palgrave Macmillan Faleiros, V. P. (2014) Estratégias em Serviço Social (10 ed). Cortez Ferguson, I., Ioakimidis, V., & Lavalette, M. (2018) Global Social Work in a Political Context: Radical Perspectives. Policy Press Fook, J. (2023) Social Work: A Critical Approach to Practice (4 ed.). Sage García, T. F., & Romero, L. (2019) Trabajo social individualizado: metodología de intervención. Alianza Editorial García, T. F., & Romero, L. P. (2019) Trabajo social con familias. Alianza Editorial. Healy, K. (2022) Social Work Theories in Context: Creating Frameworks for Practice (3rd ed.). Red Globe Press. Payne, M. (2020) Modern Social Work Theory (5th ed.). Oxford University Pres Santos, C. M., Backx, S., & Guerra, Y. (2017) A dimensão técnico-operativa no Serviço Social: desafios contemporâneos. Cortez.