The dialectics of change in social work education

Authors

  • Graeme Simpson University of Wolverhampton
  • Ani Murr University of Wolverhampton

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1921/jpts.v13i2-3.818

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to explore the dialectics of change in social work education. Beginning with a brief outline of the dialectic, it acknowledges the contested nature of social work, and identifies historical tensions between major stakeholders (government, regulators, employers, academics and educators). It examines inherent contradictions in the understanding of ‘good’ social work in the conflict over the social work curriculum, and in approaches to the assessment of practice at institutional and individual levels. Significant disconnections between stakeholders identified through the social work degree are described and the potential for reconnection through the reform process in England is recognized. The paper concludes by questioning whether such reconnection (synthesis) is possible in the context of divisive historical tensions (thesis and anti-thesis) and suggesting where new forms of connectivity may emerge

Author Biographies

Graeme Simpson, University of Wolverhampton

Senior Lecturer, Social Work

Ani Murr, University of Wolverhampton

Senior Lecturer, Social Work

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Published

2015-08-17

How to Cite

Simpson, G., & Murr, A. (2015). The dialectics of change in social work education. The Journal of Practice Teaching and Learning, 13(2-3), 109-132. https://doi.org/10.1921/jpts.v13i2-3.818

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Section

Articles
Received 2015-08-15
Accepted 2015-08-15
Published 2015-08-17

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