Module 25-MIS-O2 Theories and methodologies in the context of inclusion and exclusion 1

Thinking Inclusion/Exclusion
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to critically analyse theoretical frameworks of inclusion and exclusion across philosophical-ideological, cultural, and legal-political dimensions. They will develop the ability to evaluate how power relations, identity formation, and social norms shape mechanisms of marginalisation in contemporary societies. Students will also be able to apply conceptual tools to interpret real-world cases of (in)exclusion and to articulate informed, interdisciplinary arguments regarding citizenship, tolerance, and belonging. Through reflective engagement, they will strengthen their capacity to assess the normative implications of inclusive policies and practices in diverse socio-cultural contexts.

Doing Inclusion
Upon completion of the course, students will be able to analyse mechanisms that facilitate or hinder social inclusion by integrating methodological, economic, sociological, and identity-related perspectives. They will apply basic qualitative and quantitative research methods to critically examine inequalities in education, labour markets, and everyday social interactions. Students will reflect on how stigma, migration processes, and policy environments shape access to opportunities and participation in society. They will develop the ability to propose informed and evidence-based strategies to support inclusive practices in diverse contexts.

Thinking Inclusion/Exclusion
This course explores the concept of inclusion on three interrelated levels.
The first level examines inclusion as a philosophical and ideological concept that underpins practical strategies and policies aimed at integrating diverse social groups. The conceptual framing of inclusion informs the instruments and approaches employed in inclusive policymaking.
The second level addresses the cultural dimension, which often proves challenging due to the difficulty of reconciling differing cultural norms, values, and practices. In this context, the course will engage with key notions such as cultural pluralism, multiculturalism, and cultural consensus.
Finally, the third level focuses on the legal-political sphere. Drawing on selected case studies, it will consider issues of tolerance, discrimination, and citizenship. Particular attention will be devoted to the role of religion as a factor of both religious inclusion and exclusion.

Doing Inclusion
This course explores the potential of inclusion and the factors that enable or hinder it, combining methodology, economic, and sociological perspectives. The first block introduces methods in social sciences: the students learn the basics of qualitative and quantitative methods in social sciences and get an idea of how to use textual analysis in research.
The second block focuses on how education, human capital, and labour market dynamics shape the reproduction and mobility of social position. Students will examine how investments in education, information asymmetry, educational mismatch, unemployment, and employment policies influence opportunities for inclusion.
The third block addresses stigma and identity as critical dimensions of social participation. It analyses how age discrimination, unemployment stigma, and mental illness affect individuals’ access to opportunities and explores strategies for moving from stigma management to active inclusion.
The fourth block focuses on migration. We examine migrants’ experiences of integration, various integration strategies, and how these intersect with national policies. Drawing on migration theories, students will compare different country approaches to integrating diverse migrant groups.

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Enrolment in the Master's degree programme Inclusion Studies.