Class Social economics

This course unit explores the theoretical and practical foundations of Social Economy and its relationship with Social Work. It is structured into three main parts (conceptual, historical-political & innovation/entrepreneurship; local development and intervention practices), combining lectures, text discussions, case studies, and engagement with organisations and professionals. Its main objective is to provide students with solid theoretical knowledge and practical skills to intervene and collaborate effectively with organisations in the social sector.

Not applicable

PART I — Social Economy: Principles and Foundations Definitions and fundamental concepts Theoretical models and approaches Typologies of institutions PART II — Historical Evolution, Social Policies, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Historical evolution Legal frameworks and public policies Social Economy and social policy Social entrepreneurship Innovation in Social Economy organisations PART III — Local Development, Social Inclusion and Innovative Practices Social Economy and local development Social Economy and inclusion Social innovation practices and differentiating initiatives

The course employs active and participatory methodologies that integrate theory and practice, fostering autonomy and collaborative learning. Dialogical lectures are complemented by classroom debates, which stimulate critical thinking and the problematization of theories. Students carry out practical assignments, applying the knowledge they have acquired to real-life situations. The flipped classroom methodology encourages prior preparation of topics and in-depth class discussions. Critical analysis of scientific articles and institutional reports develops academic reading, and argumentation skills. A central activity is the organisation of a student-led seminar on Social Economy, designed to showcase innovative projects, activities, or services from sector organisations. Each student selects a project or organisation, establishes contact with professionals, and coordinates their participation, thereby strengthening the connection between theoretical knowledge and practical realities.

Caeiro, J. M. C. (2008). Economia social: conceitos, fundamentos e tipologia. Revista katálysis, 11, 61-72. Disponível em: https://www.scielo.br/j/rk/a/Zyqs6pMYssPQBs3mKxtLZ8R/. Garrido, A. (2013). De onde vem a Economia Social. Pp 1-10. Acessível em: https://cnes.org.pt/congresso/AlvaroGarrido-De-onde-vem-a-Economia-Social.pdf. Luz, Helena Reis (2025). “Políticas Sociais, Economia Social e Serviço Social: Um recorte analítico pós-25 de Abril em Portugal” in Almeida, C. D., & Marques, M. I. A. (Coords.). As revoluções da revolução: Políticas sociais e serviço social. Edições Lusófona. Moreira, M. B. (2019). A Economia Social e Solidária como condição para o desenvolvimento sustentável. UN Inter-Agency Task Force on Social and Solidarity Economy. Disponível em PDF (docente). Namorado, R. (2006). Os quadros jurídicos da economia social-uma introdução ao caso português. Disponível em: https://estudogeral.uc.pt/handle/10316/11113.