YKPS3011 Comparative Social Policy (5 cr)

Study level:
Advanced studies
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
English, Finnish
Responsible organisation:
Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy
Curriculum periods:
2020-2021, 2021-2022, 2022-2023, 2023-2024

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In this study unit, students read texts on comparative social policy and prepare a small practical research project in a group.

Description

Students research urgent social problems, and use comparative methods to search for policy solutions. The course introduces different basics of comparative research. We look at both countries and different policy arenas. The course will also introduce you to reading and making comparative metrics and how different comparisons are presented (tables, charts, etc.), how to define and operational research questions, and how to report results.

Learning outcomes

Students who have taken the course will be able to compare various welfare state models, and describe how social and public policy functions in different contexts. They are able to prepare a small practical research project in a small group on a tight schedule, and communicate the results in reports and presentations.  

Description of prerequisites

Recommended prerequisites: basic and intermediate studies in Social Sciences and Philosophy

Study materials

Required course work includes course readings and other material which will be discussed in the course.


Other reading material listed below.

Literature

  • Hall, P.A. & Soskice, D. (eds.): Varieties of Capitalism: the Institutional Foundations of Comparative Advantage (ISBN 978-0-19-924774-5)
  • Mahoney, J. & Thelen, K.: Explaining Institutional Change: Ambiguity, Agency and Power (ISBN 978-052-111-883-5)

Completion methods

Method 1

Description:
Lecture, group work, active participation, and/or individual work.
Evaluation criteria:
Active participation, presentation and/or written work.
Select all marked parts
Parts of the completion methods
x

Teaching (5 cr)

Type:
Participation in teaching
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
English, Finnish

Teaching