Practicum Education has been designated the signature pedagogy of Social Work Education. Signature pedagogy represents the central form of instruction and learning in which a profession socializes its students to perform the role of practitioner. Professionals have pedagogical norms with which they connect and integrate theory and practice. The intent of practicum education is to connect the theoretical and conceptual contribution of the classroom with the practical world of the social work practice setting. It is a basic precept of social work education that the two interrelated components of curriculum (classroom learning and practicum instruction) are of equal importance within the curriculum, with each contributing to the development of the requisite competencies of professional practice.
Students participate in experiential and integrative learning opportunities in affiliated community organizations. This experience additionally prepares students for the professional positions they will assume in the marketplace after graduation. Students learn under the supervision of a qualified practicum instructor and with the support of a practicum advisor and liaison from the School of Social Work.
