In 2018, we could celebrate our 20th anniversary. Find out more about the developments of these two decades in this presentation: “SocNet98 20th Anniversary – History and Reflections”

20 years of SocNet98 – Watch our image film

What do we do?

We exchange lecturers and students on an individual and bilateral level. We secure a working platform for partners in the network cooperating especially within the Erasmus program of the so-called life long learning program of the European Union (the universities named above have common bilateral Erasmus contracts). We cover relevant aspects of social work in a multinational perspective through organising and participation in the International University Weeks which are held every year in April or May. Usually four members organise the weeks which are held in the same week and are open to all the members and other invited guests. Being part of an International University Week is often the first step for students to make personal contacts regarding international exchange on an personal basis and experience.

Definition of social work

As stated in the description of SocNet98, we are a network in social work, and we use the global definition of the social work profession, approved by the IFSW General Meeting and the IASSW General Assembly in July 2014:

“Social work is a practice-based profession and an academic discipline that promotes social change and development, social cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people. Principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility and respect for diversities are central to social work.  Underpinned by theories of social work, social sciences, humanities and indigenous knowledges, social workengages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance wellbeing. The above definition may be amplified at national and/or regional levels.”

Here you will find the definition in different languages.

What do we offer?

We have been working together for quite a while with very positive results for the internationalisation of our universities and students. To keep and enhance this task we are still open for new members in so far not represented European countries or regions to join our network. We offer a well-functioning network with engaged people who think that internationalisation is an important aspect in social work education. All universities are linked via bilateral Erasmus contracts with each other to foster student and lecturer exchange.

Every year in April the International University Week is hosted by at three or four network universities which bring together students and teachers from all university partners. In October we take turns hosting a network meeting with the participation of international coordinators and other relevant persons. The common language of our network meetings and International University Week is English.

GOLDEN RULES  

All existing and new SocNet98 members need to be actively ready to: 

Goals 

• SocNet98 is a living and active European network that establishes common activities to reflect about different issues around social work, but also to develop and lead common projects in the field of social work studies, teaching, research projects.  
• Facilitate exchange and mobility for teachers and staff 

Rules  

• Participate in the International University Weeks in other European countries through students and lecturers, who will participate in all the activities, as well as offering workshops.  
• All the members will be involved and actively participate in the annual coordinator’s meeting. This commitment means to attend the annual meeting and facilitate all the information required by the other members.  
• Organize an International University Week every 3 or 4 years.  
• Every member should host a Coordinator’s Meeting approximately every 10 years 
• Sign bilateral Erasmus agreements with all the members of the network  

Desirable expectations:  

• Exchange students and lecturers to other activities organized by the members of the network  
• Share useful information on Social Work regarding teaching or research with all the members of the network 
• Suggest other activities and initiatives according to the goals of the network. 

To contact us, click here.