Social and ecological sustainability in social work training

Abstract

Social ecology appears as overcoming the functional inconsistencies of the current development model, introducing a new perspective of eco-systemic balance among species and between humans and nature, as well as society systems. This is a theme directly related to Social Work that seeks to ensure social well-being, intervening in multiple dimensions of human, social and sustainable development. This presentation aims to analyse the perception of social work master students about social ecology and the importance of social and ecological sustainability on social work training. We followed a collaborative learning methodology with a group of Erasmus Social Work master's students from various Universities (Portugal, Finland, Slovakia, Spain and Lithuania). Based on a questionnaire given to each student before the group discussion, we assessed the participants' knowledge on this topic. From here we proceeded to a debate activity that allowed systematizing contributions to Social Work, as well as discussing the importance of promoting more sustainable societies and practices. The results showed that many students had limited knowledge about ecological and social sustainability, recognizing that this was a relevant topic for Social Work training. Among the aspects that the group highlighted as essential in the training were: the importance of promoting a more inclusive planet, combating social inequalities and to ensure environment as fundamental right; and the importance of promoting sustainable actions that preserve the environment and respond to climate changes. Additionally, the participants considered that social and ecological sustainability should be part of the Social Work training programme, considering present and future social intervention.