Transnational perspectives on Nordic gender equality and welfare (GEN530)
In this course we will investigate Nordic gender equality and welfare models from a transnational perspective. We will discuss some of the key features of gender equality and welfare theory, policy and politics in the Nordic social-democratic tradition, including work-life balance, the role of the state, the extent of "women friendliness", and intersectional gender theories and politics. The course aims also to think through growing critiques of the dominant Nordic equality norm as being heteronormative, nationalistic, based on racial principles and unsustainable consumption patterns. We will do this by considering increasing research focus on indigenous communities, immigration, global chains of care, and environmental challenges, to mention a few areas. The overarching questions that this course will focus on are urgent matters that have transnational reach and relevance: Is the Nordic model applicable to transnational contexts? To what extent do Nordic gender equality principles connect to a growing emphasis on prosperity and wellbeing detached from capitalist economic models, in order to face climate change and environmental crises?
Course description for study year 2023-2024
Course code
GEN530
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
10
Semester tution start
Autumn
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Autumn
Language of instruction
English
Content
Learning outcome
Knowledge:
- Knowledge about key theoretical and policy frameworks for understanding gender equality and welfare perspectives in the Nordic countries, as well as their transnational perspectives
- Knowledge about similarities and differences between the Nordic countries and variations based on intersectional approaches to equality
- Knowledge about critical transnational approaches to the dominant Nordic equality and welfare model
- Knowledge about key concepts in the field and their differences, such as intersectionality, equality, equity, justice and prosperity
Skills:
- Analyse and critically discuss characteristics of Nordic gender equality and how they relate to the Nordic welfare-state model in scholarship and policy
- Analyse and critically asses a variety of challenges to gender equality and diversity
- Analyse how Nordic models of gender equality and welfare have been developed and implemented in the Nordic countries, and how these policies have been received on a global scale
- Analyse and critically discuss Nordic approaches to gender equality and welfare in a comparative context
Competences:
- Ability to demonstrate a deep understanding of Nordic gender equality from a comparative perspective
- Ability to apply critical perspectives to dominant understandings of Nordic gender equality and welfare, including the ways in which they challenge an emergent alternative framework for global prosperity, justice and wellbeing
- Ability to apply critical perspectives and reflect on gender equality and diversity in various professional and educational situations
- Ability to address the targets set out by The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in relation to gender equality and reduction of different forms of inequality
Required prerequisite knowledge
Exam
Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
---|---|---|---|---|
Home exam | 1/1 | 8 Days | Letter grades |
Digital home-exam: an individual written essay (3000 words) to be handed in electronically. The language for the exam is English.
Coursework requirements
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Maja Brandt AndreasenMethod of work
Overlapping courses
Course | Reduction (SP) |
---|---|
Transnational perspectives on Nordic gender equality and welfare (GEN330_1) | 10 |
Open for
Open for all Master students at UiS
This course can be taken as a part of the Minor in Gender Studies (30ECTS)
Exchange students.