Judith Studer receives CS Award for Best Teaching 2022

This year’s CS Award for Best Teaching goes to the module series ‘Selbst- und Sozialkompetenz’ (commonly referred to as SeSoK I-III), part of the Social Work bachelor’s degree programme. Professor Judith Studer, the person behind the SeSoK series, developed the concept in consultation with coaches and students and is responsible for its delivery. In three compulsory modules, spread over three years, all of the bachelor’s students practise intensive self-reflection, examining their personal and social skills. These skills are discussed and encouraged from different perspectives, using a range of didactic approaches such as e-portfolio work, group and individual coaching and exchange seminars.

Practice coaches mentor the students

A coach with links to the School of Social Work mentors teams of students over the three years, building a continuing relationship of trust. Thanks to a consistent focus on professionally relevant skills, the modules have a strong practical orientation.

Research-based concept with inter-university reach

The module series is the product of an extensive research project which centred on a design-based research approach. The concept was developed in close consultation with students and coaches. Thanks to the international network ‘Förderung der Persönlichkeitsentwicklung in der Hochschulausbildung’ (Encouraging personal development in tertiary education), set up in 2019, experience from other universities at home and abroad feeds into the ongoing development of the SeSoK modules.

Impact beyond studies

Evaluations have shown that the students benefit enormously from the modules on a personal level. They learn to recognise and critically assess their own strengths and potential in relation to themselves and others. Through lifelong learning, they continue to develop the skills they acquire and those skills support them in their (future) professional life in social work and beyond.

The jury appreciated the intelligent methodology of the concept, which helps students to develop tools and approaches that will benefit them in their later professional life and will be useful for their personal development once their studies are over. The coaches’ extensive knowledge of the field ensures a high degree of practical relevance and transfer of expertise. The module series empowers the students to take a responsible attitude towards themselves and others. Close ties to research in the School of Social Work and at other universities contribute to the ongoing development of the modules.