Introduction to Competence-Based Social Work: The Profession of Caring, Knowing, and Serving

Social work is rooted in the values of service, social justice, and strong interpersonal relationships. But as the profession evolves, so must the approach to education. Michael Sherr and Johnny Jones have created the first introductory textbook written for the future of social work. Introduction to Competence-Based Social Work is an innovative book that integrates the knowledge of practice, policy, research, HBSE, and field work with the accommodating skills and practice behaviors necessary for students to become fully competent social workers by the time they graduate. This book also provides a conceptual framework that helps students develop a foundation for the professional identities they need to be successful practitioners. Students are introduced to social work through a "Why We Do, What we Do" model that emphasizes how and why social workers commit to their careers. The case studies that drive this book will engage students and present a clear picture of the profession to help them become invested in enhancing and restoring the well-being of individuals, groups, and communities.

Unlike other introductory social work texts, this book was specifically developed for use in both actual and virtual learning environments. The book's "Why We Do, What We Do" conceptual framework and extensive case studies, in conjunction with chapter-specific podcasts and classroom-ready PowerPoint slides, creates a cooperative learning experience where students can easily grasp the content and transfer that knowledge to their daily practice.

Michael E. Sherr (MSW, Ph.D., University of South Carolina) is professor and department head of social work at University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. He also serves as a commissioner for the Commission on Education Policy for the Council on Social Work Education. Professor Sherr is an internationally recognized scholar with over 50 publications, including two other books, on several areas of research and scholarship. In 2010, Sherr received the international Young Scholars Award for his research from the University of Hong Kong.

Johnny M. Jones (PhD, Florida State University; MSW, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is assistant professor of social work at Baylor University where his teaching and research interests include research and evaluation methodology, social administration, and child welfare. He was previously on faculty at the University of South Carolina's College of Social Work and directed The Center for Child & Family Studies and the South Carolina Professional Development Consortium.