Integrating Theory and Practice in Social Work Education

This clear and instructive text gives practical advice on how to write better essays or assessments and give better presentations within social work. It shows how practitioners and students can apply theoretical considerations to practical social work and how they can articulate this connection in written or oral reports, both in pre-qualification and for professional development post-qualification.

The authors, experienced teachers and researchers in social work education, explain how to go about gathering evidence from fieldwork and practice placements and how to prepare and plan an assignment or project. They give guidance on incorporating ethical considerations and theoretical developments, applying law and policy, and developing all these aspects in reflection, analysis and evaluation of practice. Also included are helpful sections on vivas in borderline situations and how to react in the case of failure. This clear and accessible guide will be invaluable to social work students, practice teachers, social work practitioners and social service managers.

Florence Watson is a lecturer at Norwich City College. She has completed evaluative research on two projects (Oxford Bail Hostel and Leicestershire AIDS Support Service). Her research interests include how the ethical principle of confidentiality is implemented in practice situations. Helen Burrows has over twenty years' experience of social work practice. She has been a senior manager in disabilities services and director of a voluntary organisation. She is currently senior lecturer at Norwich City College and is doing research on teaching ethics and values to Dip SW students. Chris Player is a qualified social worker and practice teacher. She has extensive experience in social work and over 15 years' experience teaching with the Open University. She is currently a part-time lecturer at Norwich City College and works part time as an independent practice teacher.