Protection and help in cases of domestic violence - an interdisciplinary online course

E-learning, domestic violence, violence in couple relationships, women's refuge, child and youth services

Prof Dr Barbara Kavemann, SoFFi.F, Berlin

Prof Dr em. Cornelia Helfferich, SoFFI.F, Berlin

Dr Thomas Meysen, SOCLES International Centre for Socio-Legal Studies, Heidelberg

Prof Dr Andreas Jud, University Hospital Ulm

Dr Ulrike Hoffmann, University Hospital Ulm

05/2019-04/2022

Violence in couple relationships is a common problem that has massive individual and social consequences. Women and their children who are under particularly severe strain sometimes find refuge in women's refuges, where they experience safety and protection and receive various support options from the women's refuge staff. This project aims to develop an interdisciplinary e-learning curriculum in order to (further) qualify these women's refuge staff, as well as other professionals who work to protect and help in cases of domestic violence, for their demanding work.

The online training provides comprehensive (practical) knowledge for the specialised support and care of women and their children who have experienced violence. The interdisciplinary nature of the training can also help to improve cooperation between the various actors involved in protection and support processes by, for example, promoting knowledge about each other, developing a "common language" and adopting integrated professional and ethical perspectives.

The project is divided into three phases, which include the following:

1st project year: Design of a first version of the e-learning programme

2nd project year: Running a first test cohort with evaluation, content and technical optimisation

Year 3 of the project: running a second test cohort with evaluation, further revision of the course programme and consolidation

The training should be structured in modules, similar to the other tried and tested Ulm e-learning programmes(https://elearning-kinderschutz.de/). The modules each comprise several learning units in which basic knowledge and in-depth knowledge on specific aspects are taught. In addition, case trainers, self-reflection areas and exercises are used to practise and deepen practical skills and soft skills.

The in-process implementation of workshops with relevant specialists helps to integrate their experience and expertise into the curriculum. In this way, a curriculum can be developed that is particularly relevant to the content and practical in everyday life and that is tested by the target group.

There are also plans to set up an interdisciplinary project advisory board to provide the project team with academic and practical advice and support.