How can a social work student gain a rich learning experience? And what role do social workers play in training tomorrow’s social work professionals?
These questions and more are answered in the latest episode of the ‘Care to chat’podcast, which explores the practice teaching role and student experience of the Practice Learning Opportunity, referred to as placement, an integral part of the delivery of the Degree in Social Work in Northern Ireland.
In Northern Ireland, social work students complete Practice Learning Opportunities, also known as placements, which are a core requirement for the Degree in Social Work. These practice learning opportunities involve students completing supervised practice in various settings such as health and social care trusts, education, justice, community and voluntary, and statutory organisations. The goal is to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing students for professional practice.
Once someone qualifies as a social worker in Northern Ireland they become part of a professional group, with a responsibility to foster and support other social workers. Practice teaching is an opportunity to do that, whilst also being an integral part of the delivery of the Degree in Social Work.
In this episode, experts in social work education, discuss how practice teaching is a vital part of the social work professional journey, both from the point of view of social work students, and of qualified social workers as an opportunity for professional growth and career development.
Joining Dr Wendy Austin MBE in the studio are Dr Denise MacDermott, Reader in Social Work and Subject Lead for Social Work, Ulster University, Sarah McCarthy Practice Teacher and social worker in the community and voluntary sector with Extern, Northern Ireland Practice Teacher Training Program (NIPTTP) candidate Ellen Neill who is a social worker with the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, and final year social work student Emily Hill who is studying for her Degree in Social Work at Queens University.
Social work education in Northern Ireland, the role of practice teaching and asessing professional learning on placement.