Vom Wissen zum Handeln: Die „Politikwerkstatt“ als Schlüssel zur politischen Sozialen Arbeit in der Ausbildung von Sozialarbeiter*innen

Abstract

The political dimension of social work is becoming increasingly important in a constantly changing society with its (socio)political challenges and changes. As addressing social challenges is closely linked to policymaking, the teaching of theoretical and practical principles for analysis and intervention on a structural level is also relevant in the education of prospective social workers. This article describes how the political dimension of social work is addressed in the Bachelor’s degree programme at the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences. To this end, the concept of the “Politics Workshop” course is presented. The course was developed to prepare students for the demands of political social work and to promote the relevant skills. The concept is based on a four-dimensional approach: a. theoretical examination, b. reflective examination of one’s own understanding of politics and personal attitudes towards policy practice as a social worker, c. analysis of practical examples, and d. skills for policy practice in social work. The article presents the implementation concept as well as specific teaching and learning elements. Overall, it invites discussion and further exchange on the integration of the political-practical dimension of social work in social work programmes.