OVERVIEW

In line with the Annual Course Outline and in continuity with the other subjects in the Social Work disciplinary area, this course aims to deepen the conceptual framework of social work methodology. It focuses on the acquisition of scientific knowledge, value-based reference criteria, and applicable models specific to the social work profession.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES
The teaching will foster the critical acquisition of knowledge and tools in social work methodology through the study and analysis of the complexity and multidimensionality of the helping process and the professional relationship in social work.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Regular attendance and active participation in the proposed learning activities (lectures and practical exercises), combined with individual study, will enable students to:

• Explain the concepts of objective and cognitive object in social work.
• Position social work within the conceptual framework of complexity theory.
• Analyse the complexity and multidimensionality of the social work intervention process using appropriate tools and methods.
• Identify and describe methods, models, techniques, and tools in social work, as well as the organisational dimension of personal services and networking practices.
• Apply the relational approach effectively in professional contexts.
• Trace and compare the historical evolution and different types of professional documentation.
• Produce professional documentation and apply appropriate standards in professional writing.

PREREQUISITES

Students are expected to have prior knowledge of the disciplines relevant to social work, as well as an understanding of professional ethics and the code of conduct.

TEACHING METHODS

The course will be delivered through lectures, seminars, and practical activities (including case studies, text analysis, situation simulations, and written reports). Teaching materials, information on seminars, office hours, and any changes to the class schedule will be communicated via the University’s online platform “Aulaweb.”

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

• The caring process
• The professional field of social work among caring professions: the specific role of social work
• Evolution of social work models and their specific characteristics
• The relational nature of social problems
• The relational nature of social solutions
• The empowerment process
• The social work interview: general characteristics, setting, and conducting techniques
• The caring process in complex situations
• Relationship with organizations and the bureaucratic and professional aspects of organizational work
• Evaluation elements of the methodological process and interventions
• The caring process through professional documentation
• Contexts and challenges of documentation:
  • General aspects of documentation
  • Regulations and professional documentation
• Functions and tools of documentation:
  • Documentation and the caring process
  • Documentation tools and drafting methods
  • Writing reports
  • Documentation, information systems, and research

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Textbooks and Suggested Reading Materials for Attending Students

• L. Bini, Documentazione e servizio sociale, Carocci, Rome, 2003, 2nd edition 2018
• F. Folgheraiter, Teoria e metodologia del servizio sociale, Franco Angeli, Milan, 1998, 4th edition 2002
• M. Sanfelici, I modelli del servizio sociale. Dalla pratica all'intervento, Carocci, Rome, 2017
  Additional specific readings will be indicated during the course.
•  

Textbooks and Suggested Reading Materials for Non-Attending Students

• L. Bini, Documentazione e servizio sociale, Carocci, Rome, 2003, 2nd edition 2018
• F. Folgheraiter, Teoria e metodologia del servizio sociale, Franco Angeli, Milan, 1998, 4th edition 2002
• M. Sanfelici, I modelli del servizio sociale. Dalla pratica all'intervento, Carocci, Rome, 2017

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

I semester from September 15th to December 5th 2025
 

Class schedule

METHODS AND TECHNIQUES OF SOCIAL SERVICE I B

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

For attending students: to verify the achievement of the course learning outcomes, the oral exam will cover the content of the textbooks and topics presented during the lectures across all areas of study. Written assignments completed during the course may also be assessed.
For non-attending students: the oral exam will focus on the content of each textbook.
The instructor reserves the right to conduct part of the exam through a questionnaire with multiple-choice and open-ended questions.
Online registration for exam sessions is mandatory via the University website.
The number of exam sessions is established by the degree program regulations; no extraordinary exam sessions will be held.
Attendance is considered valid for one academic year.
Course materials, seminar information, office hours, and any changes to the lecture schedule will be communicated via the University’s online platform “Aulaweb.”

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Details on exam preparation and the expected level of depth for each topic will be provided during lectures and student office hours.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Students who have valid certification of disability or Specific Learning Desorders (DSA) on file with the University may request the use of compensatory measures during the exams (e.g. additional time, concept maps, modifications in the written/oral mode), following the guidelines (p. 5) published here. In any case, for further information, please contact the Department's disability liaison: Isa.Fanlo@unige.it