Diversity and Inclusion in Social Work

02.–11.09.2025

Purpose and content

Diversity is key for a progressive and vibrant society. The mindset here means seeing diversity as a resource with positive potential. (Arndt, Susan & Ofuatey-Alazard, Nadja, 2021, 256). Dimensions such as citizenship, social background, people with disabilities, age, skin colour, gender, mental health, language, formal education, neurodiversity, housing, etc. all belong to the concept of diversity. Inclusion is the action of respecting, acknowledging, accepting and integrating these dimensions into an organisation or society. This fosters innovation, creativity and empathy and can lead to a more resilient and harmonious community. The module is designed for students of Social Work/Education and related studies. Through a broad mix of workshops, visits to practical settings and lectures, different topics related to „Diversity and Inclusion“, such as migration, (post-)colonialism and racism, queerness, community-building, transnationality and happiness, will be discussed in an international setting. Students are thereby provided with the opportunity to reflect on these issues and be part of a joint learning process within a group of students from different countries and with diverse backgrounds.

Learning outcome

After completion of the course students:

  • can define diversity and know its different dimensions
  • are sensitive towards and aware of diversity
  • know the concepts of (everyday) racism, inclusion, global ethics, intersectionality and postcolonialism
  • understand the concepts of allyship and empowerment
  • have a deeper understanding of migration
  • are able to refer to human rights, in order to guide their social practice
     

Further information

Course instructor

Abigail M. Joseph-Magwood
E-Mail: a.joseph-magwood@hs-osnabrueck.de