Biographical Methods and Professional Practice

Bo, Prue

ISBN 10: 1861344929 / ISBN 13: 9781861344922

Published by Policy Press, 2004

About this Item

The turn to biographical methods in social science is invigorating the relationship between policy and practice. This book shows how biographical methods can improve theoretical understanding of professional practice, as well as enrich the development of professionals, and promote more meaningful practitioner - service user relationships. Editor(s): Chamberlayne, Prue; Bornat, Joanna; Apitzsch, Ursula. Num Pages: 352 pages. BIC Classification: JHBC. Category: (P) Professional & Vocational; (UP) Postgraduate, Research & Scholarly; (UU) Undergraduate. Dimension: 181 x 233 x 19. Weight in Grams: 526. . 2004. First Edition. paperback. . . . . Books ship from the US and Ireland.

Seller Inventory # V9781861344922

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Biographical Methods and Professional Practice
• Publisher: Policy Press
• Publication Date: 2004
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1861344929
• ISBN 13: 9781861344922
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

This book uses a range of interpretive approaches to reveal the dynamics of service users' and professionals' individual experiences and life-worlds. From their research the contributors show how biographical methods can improve theoretical understanding of professional practice, as well as enrich the learning and development of professionals, and promote more meaningful and creative practitioner - service user relationships.

The book:

· reviews applications of biographical methods in both policy and practice in a range of professional contexts, from health and social care to education and employment;

· explores the impact of social change in three main arenas - transformation from Eastern to Western types of society in Europe, major shifts in social and welfare principles, experiences of immigration and of new cultural diversities - on professional practice;

· critically evaluates subjective and reflexive processes in interactions between researchers, practitioners and users of services;

· considers the institutional arrangements and cultural contexts which support effective and sensitive interventions;

· draws on actual projects and tracks reflection, progress and outcomes.

With contributions from leading international experts, it provides a valuable comparative perspective. Researchers, policy analysts and practitioners, postgraduate students, teachers and trainers will find this book a stimulating read.

About the Author

Prue Chamberlayne is a Senior Research Fellow and Joanna Bornat is Professor of Oral History, both in the School of Health and Social Welfare, The Open University. Ursula Apitzsch is Professor in Sociology and Political Science at the J.W. Goethe University, Germany.