Twene, Johnson, Expectations and Experiences of DSS-D Students Regarding Their Curriculum. Language: English. Autumn 2013. 52 pages, 2 appendices. Diaconia University of Applied Sciences. Degree program in social services + Option in Diaconia and Youth Development Work. Bachelor‟s degree in Social Services. The aim of the study was to investigate into the expectations and experiences of dss-d students of DIAK on their curriculum. The program leads to a double qualification in the field of social services and the recognition as a deacon in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland (ELCF). In the study, I tried to explore students‟ opinions on different religions, beliefs, spiritual orientations and how they are addressed in the dss-d curriculum.
The study follows a qualitative research approach. The research method was an interview both in one-on-one and in group forms. Interviews were considered appropriate for the study due to its nature of direct exchange of ideas and experiences among the parties involved. Qualitative content analysis was used to identify the major themes from the interviews for discussion. Results of the study shows students interest in having more practical lessons about diaconal studies. It shows students motivation to have such lessons in the early stages of their studies to enable them to have practical experiences on them during placements before exhausting their placement studies.