Courses

Course is a part of umbrella title "Theories and methodologies in the context of inclusion and exclusion 1". Classes are taught at the University of Ostrava. The course presents the dimension of inclusion from the perspective of social work as an important part of preventing social exclusion. The aim of the course is to present, from the perspective of social work, theories of inclusion and diversity, social inequality, systemic barriers and discrimination, available legislation, approaches to vulnerable groups, and the role of language and communication. The course is divided into too thematic units: 1)The first part introduces social constructs, identity (gender, ethnicity, sexuality, disability, socioeconomic status, etc.) and their influence on social structures, theoretical approaches to various types of social inequalities, norms, prejudices, and stigmas, cultural integration, models of assimilation, integration, and inclusion, digital exclusion, and positive and negative examples of inclusion. 2) Language and communication are tools we all have at our disposal. These tools play a vital role in social work, in our lives, and in society in general. Language influences, among other things, the way we think about ourselves, others, and the world. And it plays a particularly crucial role in our approach to vulnerable groups, where it can both promote their social stigmatization and, conversely, their destigmatization. This part of the course will therefore include an introduction to the basic principles of sensitive and inclusive communication and an explanation of its importance. We will also focus on some selected terms and how to work with them in the context of social exclusion and inclusion.