Hands-on Experience in Diverse Settings Can Enhance Cultural Competence, Responsiveness

Publications

By Paul R. Pace

The NASW Press book “Social Work Field Instruction in Modern Practice: A Handbook” not only integrates practical field education but also equips social work field instructors and students with the necessary tools to navigate complex community, family and individual dynamics.

The editors, Samuel B. Little, PhD, LCSW-C; Laura L. Loessner, LICSW, LCSW-C; and Mirian E. Ofonedu, PhD, MSW, LCSW-C, noted the book supports systemic change advocacy and enhances the effectiveness of social work practice in a complex and multicultural society.

The book’s key takeaways include:

• COVID required revisions in the traditional field placement model
• Field education and workforce development are closely aligned
• Growth in online MSW programs is impacting enrollment in traditional programs
• The need is growing for students to work with homeless families and in new sectors (cybersecurity, libraries, technology sector, economic globalization, sports teams and athletic organizations)
• A current trend is for increased opportunities for students to do field placements away from their home countries

The text highlights how hands-on experience in diverse settings can enhance cultural competence and responsiveness, which is essential for equipping students with practical skills necessary for creating effective social work practice interventions, the editors said.