SBU provides support materials for a scientific approach

SBU provides a digital support material for those who want to introduce themselves to or immerse themselves in a scientific approach. The support material is free of charge, in Swedish and available to anyone who wishes to take part of it.

Vetenskapligt förhållningssätt Illustrator Emma Österman.png
Caption: “What knowledge is relevant and reliable?” Illustration: Emma Österman

Exercises and reflection questions are aimed at professionals working within the Swedish social services. Part of the background to SBU’s compilation of the support material is that in 2025, a new Swedish social service act was entered into force, stating that social service activities must be based on science and proven experience.

The importance of scientific knowledge

Research is crucial for access to scientific knowledge, and a more reliable way of explaining phenomena or evaluating the effect of methods than relying on an individual’s experiences or opinions. But research also has challenges, and it is therefore important to be able to critically relate to claims about research, for example evaluated effects of a particular method or interventions.

The support material is divided into different modules that include factual texts, films, and practical exercises in the form of fictional examples from the areas of practice and target groups of the Swedish social services. Together, they clarify the importance of scientific knowledge, compiled research and how critical thinking can be useful in daily work.

During the development process, SBU has collected valuable feedback from professionals in the various fields of social services.