Degree Programme Social Pedagogy at the Department of Social Education, Faculty of Education, University of Ostrava, Czech Republic

Sekera and Richterová describe the significant transformations of the degree program Social Pedagogy at the Department of Social Education, Faculty of Education, University of Ostrava. The history of social pedagogy as a field of study and study program dates back to the 1990s. Over time, the structure of applicants has changed, as has the profile of graduates and the curriculum. Teaching methods and learning environments are currently being expanded, partly due to the measures implemented to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Social pedagogy in Ostrava is closely linked to the development of the region, the restructuring of its industrial areas, and changes in the region's demography. In its narrower focus, its research and professional ambitions are mainly geared towards providing support to socially disadvantaged children and youth (in families, schools, and other institutions) to enable their integration. In its broader focus, members of the faculty and of the field of social pedagogy wish to nurture, educate, and shape pedagogues who understand themselves, their colleagues, and clients and can support them in a lifelong process of personal development.