Seminar Pedagogy: Integrating Group Work into Post-COVID Social Work Education

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1921/gpwk20252565

Keywords:

field work seminar, group work, group cohesiveness, progressions, educational modalities

Abstract

This paper explores how field seminar pedagogy at the University of Southern Maine has adapted to ongoing shifts in the social landscape. Drawing on over forty years of combined field-related experience, the authors highlight how group work principles continue to shape seminar classroom practice. Through strategies that promote inclusion, mutual aid, and reflective dialogue, faculty create spaces where students can apply core social work values, navigate real-world practice challenges, and prepare for ethical, client-centered interactions. The paper offers practical insights into how group work can support learning, build community, and sustain social work values amid educational and societal disruption.

Author Biographies

Kimberly Giamportone, University of Southern Maine

Kimberly Giamportone, PhD, LMSW is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at the University of Southern Maine in Portland. She brings 15 years of experience in field education as both an online and campus-based seminar instructor and faculty liaison. Her background includes clinical practice in hospice and palliative care. Her scholarship focuses on interprofessional team cohesion, ethical decision-making in practice, and workforce development in healthcare and end-of-life settings.

Paul Johnson, University of Southern Maine

Dr. Paul Johnson is a professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Southern Maine, where he has taught for 27 years. His scholarship focuses on group work, field education, and trauma and grief. A member of IASWG since 1997, he has served as grievance representative for the Associated Faculties of the University of Maine at USM for 12 years and currently chairs the statewide university grievance committee.

Erin Lovejoy, University of Southern Maine

Erin Lovejoy, MSW, LCSW, CCS is Manager of Field Education at the University of Southern Maine, with 30 years of experience as a clinician and supervisor in community mental health, family work, and substance use treatment. She brings a strong understanding of the practical skills students need for successful workforce entry and partners with students and community agencies to develop internships that build these competencies.

References

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Published

2026-04-14

How to Cite

Giamportone, K., Johnson, P., & Lovejoy, E. (2026). Seminar Pedagogy: Integrating Group Work into Post-COVID Social Work Education. Groupwork. https://doi.org/10.1921/gpwk20252565

Issue

advance online

Section

Groupwork in Practice

License

Copyright lies with the journal. Enquiries regarding reproduction should be sent in the first place to enquiries@whitingbirch.net

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