Work

The Model United Nations (MUN) as a simulation tool embedding decolonisation pedagogy in international social work education

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This reflective article examines the use of the Model United Nations (MUN) pedagogy in an international social work subject at an Australian university. We used MUN simulations to develop students’ critical thinking and decision-making skills while engaging with global issues including power, justice and decoloniality. Acknowledging that both the UN and MUN were built on colonial foundations, we adopted a third-space methodology incorporating decolonising pedagogy. This approach enabled students to critique the UN and social work profession, challenge Eurocentric frameworks and broaden their understanding of global social work practice. We conclude with practical tips for replicating this approach.

Source: International Social Work

DOI: 10.1177/00208728261453256

Authors: Rugare Mugumbate, Zhuzhu Liu, Emmanuel Brenyah Adomako

Institutions: University of Wollongong, University of Johannesburg, University of Canberra

Language: English

Topic: Innovative Teaching Methodologies in Social Sciences

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650