Social work education in the creative arts space

Authors

  • Su McCaughan
  • Michael Anderson
  • Wendy Jones

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1921/jpts.v12i1.285

Keywords:

creative arts, social work education, practice learning, non-traditional placements, relationship-based practice

Abstract

This case study explores how the creative arts can be used in the professional development of student social workers. The study is of a voluntary organisation that works with adults experiencing emotional or psychological distress by helping participants to explore the arts as a means of recovery. The organisation incorporates art and design studios, a community gallery and graphic design service with several community projects including a domestic abuse project, prison project and a hospital in-patient service.

Since 2004 the organisation has supported over 40 student social workers in practice learning placements. The project manager and off-site practice educator, supported by the HEI, have been instrumental in developing a practice curriculum.

The student social workers develop core professional skills by working with individuals, groups, communities and organisations in a setting that challenges negative assumptions about mental health. The creative arts are used as a vehicle for developing skills in relationship based practice. The study will explore how the placements have evolved; what the student social workers actually do; the effectiveness of the practice experience in preparation for the final placement and the development of their professional identity.

References

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Published

2013-08-26

How to Cite

McCaughan, S., Anderson, M., & Jones, W. (2013). Social work education in the creative arts space. The Journal of Practice Teaching and Learning, 12(1), 34-52. https://doi.org/10.1921/jpts.v12i1.285

Issue

Section

Articles