Welcome to our learning activity centered around the welfare state. Throughout this course, we'll explore the European origins of welfare states, take a closer look at the Nordic model, and compare these with the welfare system in the USA.

Learning outcome:

Has broad knowledge of the ideological, political, organizational guidelines and decision-making processes which are of importance in the world’s prominent welfare states and societies.

Suggested literature:

Malcolm, P. & Askeland G. A. (Eds.). (2016). Globalization and International Social Work. Postmodern change and challenge. Routledge
Vike, H. (2018). Politics and Bureaucracy in the Norwegian Welfare State. Springer International Publishing AG. (Online, open access) Chapter 1,4 and 7.
Van Kersbergen, K. (2016). The Welfare State in Europe. I BBVA (Red.), The search for Europe: contrasting approaches (s. 269–286; Av K. Van Kersbergen). Hentet fra https://www.bbvaopenmind.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/BBVA-OpenMind-Kees-Van-Kersbergen-The-Welfare-State-in-Europe-1.pdf

Learning activity:

This learning activity is a "flipped classroom". That means that before joining class you are expected to have reviewed both of the learning activities and have answered the individual questions that are provided. When we meet in class, we will break up into smaller groups and discuss how the ideological, political, organizational guidelines and decision-making processes are important in the world’s prominent welfare states.

Digital learning resource:

View Prof. Halvard Vikes interview regarding the Norwegian welfare system:

Then watch Prof. Phu Phan and Prof. Halvard Vikes dialogue:

Lastly, watch this interview where we talk with John Oppenheim, a volunteer at CityHeART, about his experiences with the US healthcare services.

Answer these questions:

How do you think your life is affected by the welfare system you are a part of? (Education, income, work, health, etc.)
In what way can your profession contribute to the reduction of social and health inequalities?
And in which way are these services determined by your welfare system? Are there any differences compared to other welfare systems?
What are some unintended consequences of your welfare system, and how can it affect you in your future profession?

Groupwork in class:

(More information will be given during class)

“You have been introduced to various types of welfare states both in teaching and through the syllabus. Highlight common features and differences in these arrangements and discuss why these have developed differently. Also, discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the various arrangements you have come up with”.

Powerpoint from class: The Norwegian welfarestate 2023 (002).pdf