<Currents Vol 3 No 2 Csiernik & Karley> Index Abstract Introduction The King's College Practicum Methodology Results Discussion References Printable (PDF file) version ©Copyright Currents: New Scholarship in the Human Services, 2004 Experience of Social Work Practicum Activities in the Field Rick Csiernik and Mary Lou Karley Abstract There has been limited exploration of the activities social work interns engage in during their fieldwork experiences and their assessments of this integral component of social work education. Third- and fourth-year BSW students attending the King’s University College School of Social Work, London, Ontario, between 1997- 1998 and 2001-2002, were surveyed to learn more about their practicum experiences. Using a questionnaire developed in conjunction with the practicum committee, 361 (86.8%) interns returned information on their areas of practice, the client populations they worked with, their caseloads, and the field supervision they received. The majority of fieldwork activity was direct service oriented with under 13% of time devoted to community development, policy development, and research. As anticipated, fourth-year students had, on average, more long-term and short-term clients and co-facilitated and facilitated more groups. The majority of supervisors were evaluated as exceptional although, surprisingly, nearly one third of third-year supervisors and one quarter of fourth-year supervisors did not provide regular weekly supervision, despite this being a stipulation of the role. The process of examining and monitoring the practicum has led to changes in curriculum and to the support given to both social work interns and field instructors, suggesting that this is a process that would be beneficial to all schools and faculties of social work. Before starting my placement I was extremely apprehensive. However, the experience turned into more than I envisioned. After finishing at the agency I would encourage other students who feel the same way I did to try it. I feel placement is the best way for students to test the water. The staff was extremely welcoming to me as a student and was willing to help me in any way that they could. — Third year intern 1997-1998 Introduction http://fsw.ucalgary.ca/currents_prod_v1/articles/csiernik_v3_n2.htm (1 of 15)2/7/2006 7:38:13 AM