Routledge International Handbook of Social Work Education

The Routledge International Handbook of Social Work Education provides an authoritative overview of current understanding through coverage of key debates, exploring the state of play in particular social work education fields and reflecting on where the future might be taking us. The overall aim of the Handbook is to further develop pedagogic research and scholarship for social work education. Drawing on medical education as an exemplar, the contributions view social work education as a specialism and a field of expertise that counts in the same way as research programmes in more traditional areas of social work practice. The chapters are concerned with the theory and practice of social work education at all levels; they are accessible, conceptually clear, research based where appropriate, critically reflective and ethically underpinned. The Handbook is organised into seven sections that reflect the proposed themes and sub-themes covering: Social work education in context: the western drivers Emerging and re-emerging social work education The scholarship of learning and teaching New insights into field education New directions in learning and teaching Future challenges in social work education This handbook presents a contribution to the process of exchange and dialogue which is essential to global social work education. It brings together professional knowledge and lived experience, both universal and local, and will be an essential reference for social work educators, researchers, students and professionals. Review This outstanding collection presents in-depth analysis and debate concerning all the key issues in social work education. It addresses detailed questions of learning and teaching in action through to broader issues of global dynamics and relationships, bringing to each topic a critical and perceptive awareness that challenges preconceptions and invites us to re-examine our current theories and practices. This volume will prove an invaluable resource for educators, practitioners and students. Richard Hugman, Professor of Social Work, University of New South Wales, Australia. This volume is the most comprehensive text on social work education to date. The contributors from five continents and a broad variety of countries analyze critical topics relating to what is taught, how it is taught, and what its impacts are. It is a "must have" for social work educators interested in a global perspective of their field, as well as improving their own pedagogy.Susan Mapp, Professor, Elizabethtown College, USA This handbook brings together a wealth of knowledge, derived from research, scholarship and their experience as social work educators from around the world. Its 34 chapters provide readers with information and ideas about the Western drivers of social work education; case studies of newly emerging or re-emerging developments; selected issues in both pedagogy and field education; and 'new directions' and future challenges for the discipline and profession. While recognising the impact of global factors, the 72 authors provide thought-provoking commentaries on their task and give fascinating glimpses into the varied national socio-economic and political contexts for which they must prepare future professionals. Karen Lyons, Emeritus Professor, International Social Work, London Metropolitan University, UK Edited by leaders in social work education, this book provides a diverse array of perspectives and approaches regarding social work education from across the globe. Not shying away from controversy, authors eloquently discuss the manner in which core social work values of social change, cohesion and empowerment are applied in local contexts - shaped by cultural history, economic, political and environmental crises, and local systems for addressing human struggles and tragedy. A must-have resource for all social work educators preparing students for practice in our global en