SOWK 782: Field Instruction II

Course Syllabus

I.       Purpose/Rationale of the Course

The profession of social work has long recognized the importance of providing instruction which includes an application of the skills and theories taught in the classroom. The field courses furnish students with an opportunity to begin the practice of professional social work in a controlled and planned setting.

II.      Content of the Course

            This course builds on SOWK 781 and continues the involvement of the student in professional agency practice. As such, it includes continued exposure to work with individuals, families, and groups with the addition of increasingly complex cases and more extensive intervention options.  In addition, the course will involve the student in various models and methods of indirect practice such as committee work, policy issues, and agency research.

            The specific case experiences will differ somewhat depending on the particular agency setting but all students will focus on these beginning skills of professional practice.

            This is a practicum course with direct instruction offered by an agency based field instructor. Therefore, the specific learning experiences offered to students will be tailored somewhat to the resources of the agency as well as the needs of the student.

III.  Course Objectives

            The following objectives are intended to prepare students for functioning at a beginning level of competence in the social service delivery system. The course involves the student in the actual utilization of professional skills in an agency setting.

            A student who successfully completes this course should be able to:

1.      Demonstrate a developing professional identity, including adherence to the value base of social work practice and the demonstration of professional behaviors.

2.      Apply theoretical concepts and research findings to assessments at all system levels including individual, family, group, organization, and community.

3.      Comprehend and apply generalist practice skills with diverse client populations at multiple system levels.  Generalist skills include interviewing techniques, facilitation of group processes, case planning, networking, advocacy, and resource development. These skills are directed towards enhancing the functioning of individuals, families, groups, and communities and promoting social and economic justice.

4.      Assess the agency setting and its role within the local community.

5.      Identify social problems relevant to the community and critically analyze the impact of social policies and services in addressing these problems.

6.      Assess and critically analyze the effectiveness of social work intervention strategies with diverse client systems.

7.      Demonstrate the use of professional communication skills appropriate to the agency setting, including case documentation and recording.

8.      Demonstrate an awareness of issues related to diversity and apply intervention strategies with flexibility and sensitivity.

9.   Use technology within the field agency to advance service to clients.

IV.     Methods of Instruction

            As a practicum, this course is taught primarily in tutorial fashion