3 Units
This course aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of youth culture and youth work in global and local contexts. It explores different concepts of youth and their theoretical and ideological foundations, and discusses key themes in studies of youth culture including youth in society (e.g. citizenship, school-to-work transition, social inclusion and exclusion), youth cultural practice (e.g. subcultures, globalization, consumption and identity), and youth in community (e.g. democratic participation, youth and public space). The course furthermore examines approaches to youth work in contemporary societies, with emphases on reflective understanding of the problems and needs of today’s youth, and critical appraisal of major youth work models. Current policy issues related to human rights and well-being of young people will also be discussed.