Children's trauma and school contingency plans (FRG244F)

The aim of the course is for students to gain knowledge of working methods in a trauma-based approach and the changes that need to take place in schools when implementing such an approach. At the same time, emphasis will be placed on introducing the main elements that need to be present to ensure that the school can meet the needs of children who are struggling with the consequences of trauma. In addition, the cooperation between parents and schools will be discussed based on the focus on integrated services. Various resources and possible cooperation with other organizations that serve children and families following trauma will be presented. Emphasis will also be placed on preparing students for the cooperation of different professional groups in the development of prevention in connection with a trauma-based approach in schools.

Integrated services for children: Legislation on wellbeing (FRG240F)

The course offers a basic understanding of legislation on services for children, with emphasis on the new law on Integration of Services in the Interest of Children’s Prosperity. The course will also cover the Convention on the Rights of the Child and international obligations in the field of children’s rights. In the course we discuss how the new legislation emphasizes first-level services for children and how it can be applied to prevent situations that threaten children’s wellbeing.

 The first part focuses on gaining knowledge and understanding of the legislation, while the second part emphasizes application of knowledge and practical examples from the field (cases). Finally, the course will discuss social investments, tools to evaluate and assess whether the objectives of the legislation have been achieved, with an emphasis on methods of cost-benefit analysis.

Children´s trauma (FRG130F)

The aim of the course is for students to gain a deeper knowledge of the consequences of different types of children´s trauma and their main appearances in their behavior and well-being. Emphasis will be placed on discussing the effects of trauma in families on children and the consequences of growing up with a lack of stability and complex family situations. The latest research on the effects that trauma and stress can have on children will be presented, e.g. on their behaviour, intellectual, social and emotional development. Students will also become aware of and know the importance of resilience and other protective factors in children's environment.

Children and wellbeing: Children’s rights and participation (FRG128F)

The course offers a basic understanding of childhood studies and examines child-centered approaches, with a focus on challenges faced by more vulnerable children. The course focuses on children’s interests, issues of protection and threats to children’s well-being. Emphasis will be on how first-level services for children adds opportunities for early intervention and prevents situations that threaten children´s wellbeing. Practical examples will be discussed, and students will gain an insight into them using evidence-based work methods to form decisions.

Challenges at work (FRG245F)

The course will discuss the implementation of a trauma-focused approach in schools and other institutions that care for children. In addition, the possible effects of working with children who have experienced trauma (compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma and burnout) and the support resources available to them will be discussed. The main focus will be on staff knowing signs of stress and their own defensive reactions to stress and developing coping strategies to nurture their own professional self. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of professional supervision for with the aim of maintaining a balance between professional and personal self and preventing professional fatigue and burnout at work.

Case management and interdisciplinary collaboration: A new way of working for children (FRG238F)

The course offers a basic understanding of collaboration, interdisciplinary teamwork and coordination of services. Key aspects of interdisciplinary teamwork within and outside the institutions will also be covered as well as the emphasis will be on introducing practical methods for the benefit of children's prospirity.Students are given the opportunity to review and analyze their strengths and related weaknesses. They will also get the opportunity to learn from feedback to develop professionally in collaborations and teamwork. Various challenges in the integration of services for children will also be discussed, as well as evidence-based methods and approaches with an emphasis on early intervention.