European Social Policy and Social Rights

This is the one and only postgraduate course in East Mediterranean dedicated specifically to this crucial multidisciplinary field. The program’s commitments include a wide range of principal objectives:

  • A critical analysis of the discourse in the academic fields of European and Global Social Policy contributing to the understanding of the major relevant policy aspects and combining them with the development of Social Rights at the national and the European front
  • A multi and inter-disciplinary dimensional approach to social policy and rights combined with a cross-national comparative analysis of the current social reforms, exploring the role of supranational institutions (EU, Council of Europe, OECD, ILO, etc.) towards the Europeanization of national social policies and of social rights in light of the growing pressures of globalisation
  • A wide understanding of social policy options available today by learning different policy dimensions and by studying the institutional, political and economic EU arrangements related to social policy making and implementation by the key European actors
  • A thorough examination of specific common or differing social problems as related to the social rights agenda and their reflections as involved in European Integration and in shaping the field of European Social Policy and European Social Rights
  • Abilities/skills for social research with a European perspective in a range of issues engaged in implementing/evaluating social policy and in realising European Social Rights, leading to potential employment either in teaching, research or further study for a PhD or in a wide range of national and international institutions (Social Organisations, European Commission, European Parliament, Council of Europe, OECD, ILO, EU lobbying organisations, consultancies, etc.)

The central aim of this M. Sc. course is to provide a balanced combination of academic knowledge, research perspectives and career opportunities. Towards this complex and ambitious aim contribute:

  • The competency of the overall structure and the distinctive features of the program with relevant courses in UK and continental Europe Universities, granting its international perspective and academic visibility
  • The international team of the highly esteemed academic experts who join the program, comes from different disciplines (sociology, economics, political science, history, law, etc.) and from a wide range of European Universities

Content of the course

The content of the program of study combines theoretical and methodological issues in the area of European social policy analysis and Social Rights, topics related to economic, comparative and evaluation aspects of social policy systems, applications in a range of European social policies, the development of European Social Rights and the closely related prospects of the European Social Model towards 2030. This is implemented by a wide spectrum of topics that are structured around the following major thematic areas:

  • European Social Policy Analysis and Social Rights
  • Social Policy Research Methodology
  • Economic and Comparative Social Policy
  • European Social Policies

In this framework, the first semester provides

  • the study of social policy research methodology for both quantitative and qualitative analysis,
  • an analysis of the field of Social Policy and its correlation with Social Rights including a theoretical basis as well as a historical/institutional/political/economic analysis of European Integration and Social Europe

The purpose of the first semester is to lay the foundations of the course for the students. By the end of the semester students will be expected to have acquired knowledge of the research methodology and of theory of social policy and rights as well as an understanding of the historical, institutional, political and economic background to European Integration.

The second semester unfolds

  • the challenging area of Social Policy Analysis including economic analysis, comparative and methodological analysis, social planning and evaluation
  • fields of European social policies analyzing the European policies adjusted in employment, industrial relations, social insurance, health, social assistance, immigration, social inclusion, education.
  • the challenges and prospects of the European Social Model appreciating the future of European and Global Social Policy

The second semester provides students with skills in analyzing, comparing and evaluating European social policies and their implementation in specific fields. Particular attention is paid to the scope for politico-economic harmonization in the social policy and social rights field and to the appreciation of the course of Social Europe towards 2030.

 Period of study

The period of study lasts minimum 18 months. It includes two semesters of taught courses (during the first academic year) and one to two semesters for students to complete their M.Sc. dissertation (second year) under continuous academic supervision.

 Structure

This is an M. Sc. programme awarded after completing 90 ECTS credits. The students are required to attend successfully the courses in the first academic year (two semesters), and subsequently to submit their M.Sc. Dissertation in the second (third or fourth semester). Each semester consists of 13 teaching weeks and corresponds to 30 credits. The Dissertation is equivalent to 30 credits.

Curriculum

1st semester  
Courses ECTS
1. Social Policy & Social Rights 12
2. European Integration 10
3. Quantitative Social Policy Research 4
4. Quantitative Social Policy Research 4
Semester Total 30
2nd semester  
Courses ECTS
1. Economics of Social Policy 6
2.Comparative Social Policy 6
3. Global-European Social Policy & Social Rights 8
4. European Policies: Employment, Pensions-Health, Immigration, Education  10
Semester Total 30
3rd semester  
Diploma Thesis 30

COURSES ANALYSIS

I. Social Policy Research Methodology

1.Short Description

This is an introductory course that presents the basic dimensions of quantitative and qualitative methodology and data analysis in social policy research. More specifically, the course discusses sampling size and sampling techniques, choosing between qualitative and quantitative approach, variable classification, producing the appropriate research instrument, Descriptive and Inferential Statistics, . Key concepts include, among others, probability and non-probability sampling, t-test, non-parametric tests, correlation analysis, categorical and qualitative data analysis and multivariate techniques as well as applications through the SPSS software. No rigorous mathematical or statistical background is needed since the emphasis is on applications and presentation of the analysis.

2.Aims:

Upon completion of the course the student will be able to:

(a) To devise and execute a sampling plan for quantitative and qualitative studies in social policy
(b) Adopt the appropriate approach (quantitative and/or qualitative) to draw inferences from the empirical data
(c) To develop interview guides and questionnaires
(d) To know the basic ideas of Descriptive Statistics
(e) To choose and conduct the appropriate technique of Inferential Statistics
(f) To interpret the research findings
(g) To know the fundamental commands of SPSS

3.Anticipated Learning Outcomes:

  • Developing skills regarding designing, analyzing and comparing concepts and findings in quantitative and qualitative research
  • Developing skills in using SPSS

 4.Assessment:

Written assignment on real data. Students analyze a real data set and present their research findings.

5.Bibliography:

Creswell, J. (2011). Educational Research: Planning, Conducting, and Evaluating Quantitative and Qualitative Research, Athens: Ellin/Ion (in Greek)

Katsis, A. Sideridis, G. and Emvalotis, A. (2010) Statistical methods in Social Sciences, Athens: Topos (in Greek) ς

II. Social Policy Analysis

1.Social Policy and Social Rights: Concepts, Values, Principles

1.Short Description

This is a course focused upon the major theoretical aspects of Social Policy and Social Rights and elaborates on the fundamental concepts, values and principles of this academic discipline. Using an inter-disciplinary analysis, the debate is concerned with those aspects of the economy, society, politics and polity that are necessary to individual and social welfare and the means by which they can be provided. The study of Social Policy is designed to reflect on the ways in which different societies have developed ways of social intervention to meet basic needs, or have failed to do so. This is a course designed to analyze the role and the aims of both social policy and social rights, to discuss its multi-disciplinary nature as an academic field, to raise the fundamental questions in relation to social, fiscal and occupational welfare. The seminars include lectures about the problems of redistributive justice and ethical issues in social policy, the assessment and the effects of social rights, concepts of need, equality, justice, rights, citizenship.

2.Aims

The aim of this course is analyze the principles, values and concepts in social policy and the aims of social rights covering different theoretical approaches and major questions in Social Policy. Students will be expected to understand/explain these different approaches and to assess their implications from the perspective of different disciplinary and ideological traditions.

3.Learning outcomes

By completing this course students are expected to be able to:

  • critically analyze/synthesize key concepts and different approaches of Social Policy
  • understand the formation and assess the impact of Social Rights
  • explain if and to what extent social policy through social rights can face social needs in the 21st century and the ongoing multifaceted crises

4.Student evaluation

Students will be tested in the middle of the semester and finally evaluated on the basis of a written examination at the end of the semester. They can also undertake optional reports/presentations.

5.Selected Bibliography

  • Baldock J., Manning N., Miller S., Vickerstaff S. (1999), Social Policy, Oxford: Oxford University Press.
  • Βενιέρης Δ. (2013), Ευρωπαϊκή Κοινωνική Πολιτική και Κοινωνικά δικαιώματα: Το Τέλος των Ύμνων, 2η έκδοση, Αθήνα: Τόπος.
  • Dean H. (2006), Social Policy, Cambridge: Polity.
  • Esping-Andersen C. (2006), Οι Τρεις Κόσμοι του Καπιταλισμού της Ευημερίας, Αθήνα: Ελληνικά Γράμματα (μετάφραση, αγγλική έκδοση 1990).
  • Esping-Andersen G, Gallie D., Hemerijck A., Myles J (2006), Γιατί Χρειαζόμαστε ένα Νέο Κοινωνικό Κράτος, Αθήνα: Διόνικος.
  • Titmuss R. M. (1974), Social Policy: An Introduction, London: Allen & Unwin.

 

2. European Integration: Institutional, Economic and Political Aspects

1.Brief description of the course

In this course, which has a seminar form and includes lectures and debates in the classroom, focus will be placed on the following aspects:

  • Introduction to the historical development of the European Union and the main theoretical approaches to the study of European integration
  • Analysis of the institutions and processes through which European and national actors are involved in the policy making process
  • Analysis of the Europeanization of social protection with emphasis on the European of the Greek social protection system and examination of the extent at which the Europeanisation process leads to a convergence of social protection systems of EU member states
  • Examination of the ways in which the financial and economic crisis and the recent pandemic have impacted on the policy making process and social protection in Europe
  • Debate on the future challenges on how these affect both the integration process and social policy

2.Aims of the course

The aim of this course is to help students understand basic concepts, different theoretical approaches and open questions in European Social Policy Analysis today as well as to make them familiar with institutional, economic and historical aspects of the process of European Integration.

3.Learning outcomes

By completing all the requirements for this course students are expected to be able to:

  • understand and compare key approaches to the study of European integration
  • understand the ways in which the European integration process impacts on the formulation of European and national social policies
  • analyze current problems and challenges and how this affect both the European integration process but also the development of European social policy

4.Student evaluation

Students will be evaluated on the basis of a short mid-term exam and above all on the basis of an essay-based final exam, covering all the material taught in the course and scheduled to take place at the end of the semester.

5.Selected Bibliography

Anderson, K. (2015) Social Policy in the European Union. Palgrave Macmillan.

Andreou, G. (2022) European governance in times of multiple crises. Athens, Kritiki [in Greek].

Kvist, J. and Saari, J. (2007) The Europeanisation of social protection, Bristol, Policy Press.

Maravegias, N. (2016) ed. European Union. Athens, Kritiki [in Greek].

Μaravegias, Ν. And Sakellaropoulos, Th (2018), ed., Greece in the European Union Athens: Dionicos [in Greek].

Molle, W. (2006), The Economics of European Integration: Theory, Practice, Policy, 4th edition,  Farnham: Ashgate Publ.

Koutsiaras, N. (2013) Times are changing- are we? Essays on European political economy before and after the crisis, Athens, Papazisis [in Greek].

Sakellaropoulos, Th. (2011), ed., The Social Policy of the European Union, Athens: Dionikos (in Greek).

Tsoukalis, L. (2023) Europe’s Coming of Age,   Polity Press.

III. Economic and Comparative Social Policy Analysis

1.Economic Analysis of Social Policy

1.Short description

The course introduces some of the main issues which economists highlight when they analyse social policy and when they study the political economy of the welfare. The first part of the seminars is an approach of the welfare state as an instrument of equity and efficacy and discusses the failures of the market and the state in certain social policy fields (health, pensions, poverty). The second part focuses upon the Greek case; it examines the policies against poverty and unemployment and discusses the major economic components of the Greek pension system. The third part is concerned with specific issues of the economic analysis in social policy including ‘flexicurity’ and the social implications of the financial crisis in Europe and Greece.

2.Aims

The aim of this course is to analyse basic concepts, present several theoretical approaches and appreciate different economic methods in the economics of welfare. In addition, the course is concerned with the major issues of redistribution, financing welfare, appraising social expenditure, justifying social intervention and measuring economic welfare.

3.Learning Outcomes

Students will learn to apply economic arguments to social policy issues with particular emphasis on pensions, health, poverty and unemployment and particular reference to efficiency, equity, redistribution and the economics of insurance.

4.Assessment:

Written examination plus an optional report to improve the final grade (up to 2 points, 2000 words max).

5.Selected Bibliography

  • Barr N. (2004) The economics of the welfare state (4th edition)., Oxford: Oxford University Press .
  • Boyer R. (2008) Η δανική ευέλικτη ασφάλεια: ποια είναι τα συμπεράσματα για τη Γαλλία; Στο: Askenazy P. και Cohen D. (επιμ.) Η οικονομία σήμερα. Αθήνα: Πόλις (Ελληνική έκδοση 2009).
  • Jenkins S.P., Brandolini A., Micklewright J. & Nolan B. (2011) The Great Recession and the distribution of household income. Milan: Fondazione Ronaldo Debenedetti.
  • Viebrock E. and Clasen J. (2009) Flexicurity and welfare reform: a review. Socioeconomic Review 7 305-331.
  • Matsaganis M. (2012) Social policy in hard times: the case of Greece. Critical Social Policy 32 (3).
Comparative Social Policy

1.Short description

This course explores key questions and issues in social policy and welfare state development. It examines comparatively the history, growth, maturation, retrenchment and reform of the welfare states of the developed countries of Western Europe as well as their consequences. The comparative analysis of social policies, programmes and institutions helps us understand why, how and to what effect different countries deal with important social problems and issues. Five key questions structure the course:

1) Why did we need the welfare state in the first place?

2) How did we get the welfare state we got?

3) What are the main effects of welfare states?

4) Why do we need to reform the welfare state?

5) What new welfare state do we need and how do we get it?

2.Aims

  • To critically analyze key concepts and terms of comparative analysis and study of social policy and welfare
  • To understand the logic, but the importance and problems of comparative analysis
  • To critically analyze and synthesize different theoretical approaches in the interpretation of the development of social policy
  • To understand why, how and with what effects the different countries construct the delivery of social services and transfers to citizens
  • To stimulate critical thinking on whether and to what extent the existing and emerging social policies are able to solve current social problems
  • To promote awareness of the dilemmas and social and political risks involved in major reforms of the welfare state

3.Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the course students should be able to:

  • Understand the basic concepts and terms in the comparative analysis of social policy and the welfare state
  • Understand the rationale, significance and problems of comparative social policy analysis
  • Analyze and synthesize quite different approaches in the comparative analysis of the development of social policy and the welfare state
  • Implement established theories, methods and techniques of social sciences to problems of social policy development
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the origins, the meaning and implications of the similarities and differences of national social policies
  • Identify exogenous and endogenous factors affecting the formation of different welfare state regimes

 4.Assessment:

Written examination. The students may improve their final grade by up to 2 points writing an essay of 1500 words max.

 5.Selected Bibliography:

  1. Leibfried, S. and Mau, S. (eds), (2008), Welfare States: Construction, Deconstruction, Reconstruction, Edward Elgar, UL.
  2. Kennet, P. (ed) (2013), A Handbook of Comparative Social Policy, Edward Elgar, 2nd Edition, UK.
  3. Hill, Μ. (2006),Social Policy in the Modern World: A Comparative Text. Blackwell, Oxford, UK.
  4. Cousins M. (2005),European Welfare States: Comparative perspectives, Sage publications, London.
  5. Amenta, A. (2003), “What we know about the development of social policy: comparative and historical research in comparative and historical perspective”, in James Mahoney and Dietrich Rueschemeyer (eds), Comparative Historical Analysis in the Social Sciences, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, pp. 91–130.
  6. Esping-Andersen, (1990):The Three Worlds of Welfare Capitalism, Cambridge, Polity, UK.
  7. Ferrera M. (1996), ‘The ‘Southern Model’ of welfare in Social Europe’.Journal of European Social Policy, 6, 17-37.
  8. Powell, M. and Barrientos, A. (2011), “An Audit of the Welfare Modelling Business”, inSocial Policy and Administration, Vol.45, No1, pp.69-84.
  9. Scruggs, L. and Allan, J.P. (2006), “The material consequences of welfare states. Benefit generosity and absolute poverty in 16 OECD countries”, Comparative Political Studies, 39, 7, pp. 880–904.
  10. Pierson, P. (ed.)The New Politics of the Welfare State, Oxford University Press.
  11. Taylor-Gooby, P. (ed.) (2004)New Risks, New Welfare: The Transformation of the European Welfare State. Oxford: OxfordUniversity Press.
  12. Armingeon, Κ. and Boloni, (eds) (2006), The Politics of Post-Industrial Welfare States: Adapting Post-war Social Policies to New Social Risks(pp. 3–26). London and New York: Routledge.
  13. Bonoli, G. and Natali, D. (eds) (2012), The Politics of the New Welfare State, Oxford University Press, UK.
  14. Feronas, A (2013),The Europeanization of Social Policy: Theoretical Perspectives, Methodological Problems and the Greek experience, Dionicos, Athens (In Greek).

IV. European Social Policies

1. European Employment Policies

1.Short description

The course focuses upon the content and the role of the European Employment Policy and analyses the EU strategy in the field of employment and labour relations. The main issues discussed include the relationship between economic and social policy, active employment policies, flexibility in labour relations, the concept and the impact of ‘flexicurity’, European working rights, the shrinking of collective working agreements, etc. Emphasis is also paid to the current economic crisis and its implications in the area of employment/unemployment in Europe and, especially, in Greece.

2.Aims

The aim of this course is to analyse the strategy and the orientations of the European Employment Strategy. The course is critically concerned with the major issues in the field of employment relating basic concepts with current developments and highlights the impact of the global economic crisis to the quality/quantity of employment in Europe appraising the EU decisions in this crucial field.

3.Learning Outcomes

The specific objectives of the course are to:

  • Acknowledge the main features in the field of employment policy
  • Understand the meaning and identify the importance of labour rights and collective agreements
  • Familiarize with the current conditions in employment in Europe and their impact in labour rights at national (emphasis in Greece) and European level
  • Analyse critically the balances between labour – capital, national – European, employment – unemployment and security – flexicurity in the fields of employment policy and labour relations

4.Assessment:

A written examination by the end of the semester (90%). Special emphasis is paid to students’ active participation during the seminars (10%).

5.Selected Bibliography

  • Esping – Andersen G.(2006): Γιατί χρειαζόμαστε ένα νέο κοινωνικό κράτος;, Αθήνα, Διόνικος.
  • European Commission (2000-2012): Employment in Europe, Annual Reports, Employment and Social Affairs, Brussels.
  • European Commission (2022): Industrial relations in Europe, Annual Report, Employment and Social Affairs, Brussels.
2.European Pension and Health Policies

1.Short Description

The course aims at examining the impact of the European integration process on pension and health policies. In particular the course addresses the following questions: How has the European integration process impacted on the development of pension and health policies both at the European and national levels? How does the evolution of European social policy affect the balance between the supranational and the domestic level? Does the European integration process lead to a convergence towards a specific model in the social policy field or do we instead (still) witness path-dependence? How have recent crises (2009 crisis, 2019 pandemic) affected the policy fields under study?

While the primary focus will be placed on the Greek social security and health system, comparisons will also be made with countries both within and outside the EU.

 2.Aims:

The course aims to provide students with:

  • an understanding of European social security and health policies
  • an understanding of the increasing interaction between the supranational and the national level

3.Skills

By the end of the course students will:

  • be familiar with the content of European social security and health policies
  • have an understanding of the increasing interaction between the supranational and national levels
  • be able to compare the different (national) social security and health systems
  • have explored the impact of the crisis on national systems

4.Assessment: Written examination

5.Selected Bibliography

Angelaki, M. (2015) Policy Continuity and Change in Greek Social Policy in the Aftermath of the Crisis, Social Policy and Administration, 50(2): 262-277.

Angelaki M, Natali D., (2011), «Pension policy in Europe since the crisis: EU developments and national reforms», στο: Degryse C., Natali D., (eds.), Social developments in the EU, Brussels, ETUI/OSE, pp. 121-140.

Brosig. M. and Hinrichs, K. (2022) The “Great Recession” and Pension Policy Change in European Countries, στο Nullmeier, F., Gonzales de Reufels, D., Obinger, H. (eds.) International Impacts on Social Policy. Short Histories in Global Perspective, Palgrave Macmillan, σσ. 385-398.

Deruelle, T. (2021) Covid-19 as a catalyst for a European Health Union: recent developments in health threats management, στο Vanhercke B. and Spasova S. (eds.) (2022) Social policy in the European Union: state of play 2021. Re-emerging social ambitions as the EU recovers from the pandemic, Brussels, European Trade Union Institute (ETUI) and European Social Observatory (OSE), σσ. 127-144.

Economou C., (guest editor), «The impact of economic crisis on health care systems», Special Issue, Social Cohesion and Development, Vol. 7, Issue 1, Spring 2012.

Greer S., (2009), The politics of European Union health policies, Maidenhead, Open University Press.

Natali, D. (2020) Pensions in the Age of Covid-19: Recent Changes and Future Challenges, ETUI Research Paper- Policy Brief 13/2020

Natali, D., Raitano, M., Valenti, G. (2022) Pensions and the Green Transition : Policy and Political Issues at Stake, ETUI Reseach Paper-Working Paper 2022.04

Mladovsky Ph., Srivastava D., Cylus J., Karanikolos M., Evetovits T., Thomson S., McKee M., (2012), Health policy responses to the financial crisis in Europe, Copenhagen, European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, WHO/EURO.

Mossialos E., Permanand G., Baeten R., Hervey T., (eds.), (2010), Health systems governance in Europe. The role of European Union law and policy, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.

Thomson S., Jowett M., Evetovitis T., Mladovsky P., Maresso A., Figueras J., (eds.), (2013), The impact of the financial crisis on health and health systems in Europe. Copenhagen, European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies.

Wismar M., Maier C., Glinos I., Dussault G., Figueras J, (eds.), (2011), Health professional mobility and health systems. Evidence from 17 European countries, Copenhagen, European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, WHO/EURO.

Wismar M., Palm W., Figueras J., Eenst K., van Ginneken E., (eds.), (2011), Cross-border health care in the European Union, Copenhagen, European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, WHO/EURO.

3.European Migration Policies

1.Short Description

The course aims at examining the impact of the European integration process on migration and social inclusion. The course raises issues such as the content of European Social Policy in the field of migration and in reference to the phenomenon of social exclusion, the relationship of national and European Migration Policies, the EU directions in the field of migration, the EU concern in relation to the process migrants’ social inclusion, the major models of migration policies in Europe, the strengths and weaknesses of the European Social Policy.

 2.Aims:

The course aims to provide students:

  • An understanding of the basic concepts and ideas in the fields of migration and social inclusion
  • Knowledge of the content and development of European Migration Policy
  • Interpretation of national migration policies (focus on Greece) and analysis of relevant EU decisions
  • A comparative perspective in reference with the traditional patterns in migration policy at the national level
  • An understanding of European Migration Policy and its impact on social inclusion

3.Learning outcomes

By the end of the course students will:

  • familiarise with the content of European Migration Policies
  • have an understanding of the increasing interaction between migration policy and social inclusion
  • be able to compare the different (national) social security and health systems
  • analyse the impact of the crisis on migration and social exclusion in Europe

4.Assessment: Written examination.

5.Selected Bibliography

  • Bauer T., Dietz B., Zimmermann K., Zwintz E., 2001, «German Migration: Development, Assimilation and Labor Market Effects», in K. Zimmermann (ed), European Migration, Oxford Economic Press.
  • Brucker H., Epstein G., McCormick B., Saint-Paul G., Venturini A., Zimmermann K., 2001, Managing Migration in the European Welfare State, Report, IMF.
  • Fertig M., and Schmidt C. M., 2001, «First – and Second – Generation Migrants in Germany – What do we know and what do people think» in Rotte R., (ed) Migration Policy and the Economy – International Experience, mimeo.
  • Strath B., 2003, Final Report: Recent Trends in immigrant strategies in Germany, Greece, Italy and the United Kingdom-A comparison. Iapasis: Does Implementation Matter? Informal Administration and Shifting Immigrant Strategies in Four Member States. Rome, 13-14 November 2003.
4.European Education Policies

1.Short description

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the systematic and critical study of the policies of the European Union (EU) for education and training (2000-2020). With reference to the relevant sociological literature we will present and analyse the important stages in the development of policies and the basic processes of their dissemination and articulation at the supranational, national and local level of current educational structures (formal, informal and non-formal education). The sociological approach allows the description and understanding of the European framework for education and lifelong learning as a dynamic environment of social regulation and formation of contemporary identities within the space of Europe.

2.Objectives

 The main objectives of the course are:

  • The focus on the systematic study of the framework, the principles and the objectives of “Education and Training 2020” programme and its relationships to the national and local contexts of educational policy and practice.
  • The analysis of the concept and content of lifelong learning in relation to the strategies of the EU to create a European area of ​​”opportunities” for education and training for all.
  • The utilisation of lifelong learning as an axis for investigating the dynamic relationship between Social and Educational policy concerning the development of practices and measures to support employment and social cohesion within the EU.
  • The review of critical theoretical issues and research findings related to the legitimate types of knowledge and their role in contemporary spaces of governance and identity formation.

3.Learning Outcomes

Upon the successful completion of the course students should be able to:

  • Demonstrate concrete knowledge about the framework, the principles, the content and dissemination processes of European policies on education, training and lifelong learning.
  • Understand the importance of specialized sociological knowledge and the idea of interdisciplinarity in the approach and understanding of European policies.
  • Use adequately the scientific literature for the study of European education policies.
  • Have basic theoretical knowledge and methodological tools for policy analysis and for critical reading of relevant research.
  • Utilize the sources and policy documents for specific professional and research purposes.
  • Pose critical questions about the content and procedures of the European education policies.
  • Discern critical policy issues and developments in a rapidly changing environment.

Competencies: Search different sources, analysis and synthesis of data and information relevant to the European education area, work in an international context, teamwork, work in a multidisciplinary environment, argumentation, creative thinking.

4.Teaching/ learning methods

Teaching of the course will take place through lectures (workload of the semester: 12 hours). The basic obligations of the students are the independent study of the literature and the writing of short essays in groups of three. The length of the essays should be around 2,000 and 2,500 words. Support the learning process should be provided through the electronic platform e-class.

 

5.Students’ assessment

Students’ assessment will be based on a written examination at the end of the course (50% of the total score) as well as the short essay performance (50%).

6.Selected Βibliography

Alexiadou, N., Fink-Hafner, D. & Lange, B. (2010).  Education Policy Convergence through the Open Method of Coordination: theoretical reflections and implementation in ‘old’ and ‘new’ national contexts. European Education Research Journal, 9(3): 345-358.

Ball, S.J. (2013). Education, justice and democracy: The struggle over ignorance and opportunity. Policy Paper. Center for Labour and Social Studies.

Ball, S.J. (2009). Lifelong learning, subjectivity and the totally pedagogised society in M. Peters, A.C. Besley, M. Olssen, S. Maurer, & S. Weber (eds) Governmentality Studies in Education. Sense Publishers (201-216).

Ball, S.J., Maguire, M. and Braun, A. (2012) How Schools Do Policy: Policy Enactments in Secondary Schools, Routledge.

Doherty, R. (2007). Critically framing education policy: Foucault, Discourse and Governmentality, in M. Peters & T. (A.C.) Besley (eds) Why Foucault? New Directions in Educational Research. New York: Peter Lang (193-204).

Fejes, A. & Nicoll, K. (2008) (eds). Foucault and Lifelong learning. Governing the subject. London: Routledge.

Gouvias, D. (2007). The ‘Responses’ of the Greek State to Global Trends of Educational Policy Making. European Educational Research Journal, 6 (1), 25-38.

Lawn, M. & Grek, S. (2012). Europeanizing Education: governing a new policy space, Symposium Books.

Peters, M., Besley, A.C., Olssen, M.,  Maurer, S.  & Weber, S. (2009)  (eds). Governmentality Studies in Education. Rotterdam: Sense Publishers.

Rizvi, F., & Lingard, B. (2010). Globalizing Education Policy. London: Routledge.

Robertson, S. (2013). Placing teachers in global governance agendas. Comparative Education Review, 56(4): 584-607.

V. Global-European Social Policy and European Social Rights

1.Short Description

This course is designed to offer a multidimensional approach for the challenges and prospects of European Social Policy as related to European Social Rights. It is a joint multidisciplinary attempt to assess the drives and barriers of European Social Policy and the possibilities for a Global Social Policy based on social rights in the 21st century turbulent era. The course welcomes approaches of different highly esteemed academic experts coming from a range of European institutions. This is a thought provoking exploration and the issues discussed include global issues such as poverty, social inequalities, climate change, changing forms of employment, demographic trends, migration, health promotion, etc. Social Policy Analysis in our days is based on Evaluation, Comparison, Supranational policies, Social Rights, etc. paying an emphasis on a great variety of issues such as employment, minimum income, new forms of taxation, environment, intergenerational justice.

2.Aims

The aim of this course is the valuable experience of a wide multi and inter-dimensional approach of the challenges and the prospects of Social Policy and Social Rights at national, international and supranational level. Students will have the opportunity to attend important teachers and asses different approaches from different disciplines and perspectives in reference with the future of social welfare all over the world.

3.Learning outcomes

By completing this final course students are expected to be able to:

  • critically analyze/synthesize key concepts and different approaches of European Social Policy and Global Social Policy
  • explain the extending role of supranational social rights in the 21st century
  • critically assess the prospects of the European Social Model and of Global social adjustment
  • understand the main socioeconomic challenges in a globalised world, the available policy means and institutions to face them and the possible impact of European and global intervention

4.Student evaluation

Students will be evaluated by a written examination at the end of the semester on the basis of the lectures presented and the relevant literature. They are also expected to make a presentation during a day-conference focused upon the major issues examined during this course.

 5.Main references

  • Albers D., Haseler S. and Meyer H. (eds) (2006), Social Europe: a Continent’s Answer to Market Fundamentalism, London: European Research Forum at London Metropolitan University.
  • Bailey, D. J. (2008), ‘Explaining the underdevelopment of `Social Europe’: a critical realization’, Journal of European Social Policy, 18(3): 232–245.
  • Venieris D. (2013), European Social Policy and Social Rights, second edition, Athens: Topos.
  • Bonoli G. (2007), ‘Postindustrialization, New Social Risks, and Welfare State Adaptation in Advanced Industrial Democracies’, Comparative Political Studies 40(5): 495–520.
  • Cantillon B. (2011) ‘The paradox of the Social Investment State: Growth, Employment and Poverty in The Lisbon Era’, Journal of European Social Policy 21(5): 432–49.
  • Castles F.G. (2010), ‘Black swans and elephants on the move: the impact of emergencies on the welfare state’, Journal of European Social Policy, 20 (2) 91-101.
  • Daly M. (2008), ‘Whither EU Social Policy? An Account and Assessment of Developments in the Lisbon Social Inclusion Process’, Journal of Social Policy, 37 (1), pp. 1-19.
  • De Burca G. & De Witte B. (eds) (2005), Social Rights in Europe, Oxford: Oxford University Press.
  • Deacon B. with Hulse M. and Stubbs P. (1997), Global Social Policy: International Organisations and the Future of Welfare, London: Sage.
  • Esping-Andersen, G. (1999), Social Foundations of Post-industrial Economies. New York: Cambridge University Press.
  • European Commission (2010), Europe 2020: A Strategy for Smart, Sustainable and Inclusive Growth. Communication COM (2010) 2020. Brussels: European Commission.
  • Farnsworth, K. and Irving, Z. (eds) (2011), Social Policy in Challenging Times: Economic Crisis and Welfare Systems, Bristol: Policy Press.
  • Ferrera M. (2008) “The European Welfare State, Golden achievements, Silver prospects”, West European Politics, 31 (1-2), 82-107.
  • Figari F., Salvatori A. & Sutherland H. (2010), Economic downturn and stress testing European welfare systems, Working Paper No. 2010-18, University of Essex: Institute for Social and Economic Research.
  • George V. & Page R. (2004), Global Social Problems, Cambridge: Polity.
  • Geyer, R. (2000) Exploring European Social Policy, Cambridge: Polity Press.
  • Gilbert, N. (2004) Transformation of the Welfare State. New York: Oxford University Press.
  • Gray, A. (2004) Unsocial Europe: Social Protection or Flexiploitation. London, Pluto.
  • Hantrais L. (2007) Social Policy in the European Union, 3rd edn. Basingstoke: Macmillan.
  • Hemerijck A. (2011), Changing Welfare States. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
  • Keune, M. (2006) ‘The European Social Model and Enlargement’, in M. Jepsen and A. Serrano Pascual (eds) Unwrapping the European Social Model, Bristol: Policy Press.
  • Kleinman, M. (2002), A European Welfare State? European Union Social Policy in Context. Basingstoke: Palgrave.
  • Leibfried, S. and Pierson, P. (eds) (1995), European Social Policy: Between Fragmentation and Integration, Washington, DC: Brookings Institute.
  • Marlier, E. and Natali, D. (eds) with Van Dam, R. (2010) Europe 2020: Towards a More Social EU? Brussels: P.I.E. Peter Lang.
  • Morel, N., Palier, B. and Palme, J. (2011), Towards a Social Investment Welfare State? Ideas, Policies, Challenges. Bristol: Policy Press.
  • Offe C. and Fuchs S. (2007), Welfare State Formation in the Enlarged European Union, Wissenschaftszentrum Berlin für Sozialforschung (WZB), Discussion paper SP IV 2007–306.
  • Orbie, J. and Tortell, L. (2008) The European Union and the Social Dimension of Globalization, London: Routledge.
  • Palier B. (ed.) (2010), A long goodbye to Bismarck: the politics of welfare reforms in continental Europe, Amsterdam: Amsterdam University Press.
  • Scharpf, Fr. (2010), “The Asymmetry of European Integration, or why the EU Cannot be a Social Market Economy”, Socio-Economic Review, 8(2), 211–250.
  • Taylor-Gooby, P. (2008), ‘The New Welfare State Settlement in Europe’, European Societies 10(1): 3–24.