Youngstown State University. Department of Social Work. Cushwa Hall/Room 3030A. Youngstown, Ohio (330) (330) (FAX)

Transcription

1 Youngstown State University Department of Social Work Bitonte College of Health and Human Services Cushwa Hall/Room 3030A Youngstown, Ohio (330) (330) (FAX) BSW Social Work Program Handbook/ BSW Field Education Manual 01/22/2013

2 BSW PROGRAM HANDBOOK BSW Program Handbook Table of Contents Introduction 1 History and Mission 1 Mission, Goals, and Competencies 1 A. Bachelor of Social Work Mission 1 B. Program Purpose and Philosophy 1 C. Goals of the Social Work Program 3 D. Program Core Competencies 3 BSW Program Curriculum 5 Admission to the BSW Program 9 Policy on Students with Criminal Records 15 Retention in the BSW Program 15 Student Opportunities 16 Departmental Policy on Discrimination 17 Departmental Policy on Privileged Communication 18 Departmental Policy on Sexual Harassment 18 Department of Social Work Faculty and Staff 19

3 Introduction The faculty and staff of the Department of Social Work at Youngstown State University welcome you. Your educational experience will prepare you for beginning social work positions requiring generalist practice skills. Consequently, a primary purpose of the BSW Program is to prepare graduates for competent generalist practice which includes the ability to assess a wide range of social problem situations and to apply appropriate treatment modalities. This Handbook has been prepared for use by new and continuing students in the BSW Program. It contains a description of the program; program mission, goals and objectives; curriculum and professional content areas; admission and retention requirements; and other relevant information pertaining to the program. We hope that this Handbook serves as a useful guide as you pursue your undergraduate education in the BSW Program at Youngstown State University. The BSW Program: History and Mission History: The BSW Program at Youngstown State University was established in At that time, the Program was part of the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work in the College of Arts and Sciences. In 1993, Social Work became a separate department. In 1995, the Social Work Department was relocated to the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services. The BSW Program achieved initial Council on Social Work Education accreditation in YOUNGSTOWN STATE UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WORK MISSION, GOALS, AND COMPETENCIES A. Bachelor of Social Work Mission Statement The Bachelor of Social Work Program at Youngstown State University has as its primary mission the educational preparation of students for beginning, competent, generalist social work practice. B. Program Purpose and Philosophy The relevance, purpose, and intrinsic value of the Bachelor of Social Work Program at Youngstown State University are significantly related to the geographic region that the University serves. The greater Youngstown area has been dramatically affected in the areas of social and economic justice. This is manifested in problems such as poverty, unemployment, underemployment and large service demands for both the elderly and the chronic mentally ill populations. Racial and ethnic minorities, women, and children are particularly vulnerable groups who are overrepresented with regard to disparate social and economic conditions. The Department of Social Work is committed to raising the consciousness of students with regard to these conditions as well as increasing their understanding of how vulnerable groups are often the

4 target of the aforementioned injustices. Exposing students to these problems increases understanding and enhances the potential for thoughtful solutions and remedies. The Bachelor of Social Work Program at Youngstown State University offers education preparation that enables students to integrate the knowledge, values and skills of the social work profession into competent practice with individuals, families, groups, institutions, organizations, and communities. This preparation also enables students to apply their understanding of the social work profession in a broad range of client service settings with a variety of groups and presenting problems. As entry level practitioners, students are also capable of delivering social services in a manner that is consistent with the values and ethics of the social work profession. Ultimately, students recognize their responsibility to continue their professional growth and development to include the incorporation of the latest technologies in their practice. The mission, purpose, and philosophy of the Bachelor of Social Work Program at Youngstown State University are consistent with the overall institutional mission. The institutional mission is dedicated to encouraging public service... promoting and understanding diversity... and advancing the intellectual, cultural and economic life of the state and region. The Bachelor of Social Work Program embraces the institution s commitment to address the needs of the region that it serves. C. The Goals of the Social Work Program at Youngstown State University are as follows: 1. Prepare students for beginning, generalist social work practice. 2. Provide students with the ability to integrate the knowledge, values and skills of the social work profession into competent practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. 3. Develop the ability of students to work with a diversity of clients, presenting problems, and social service delivery systems. 4. Facilitate the development of core values and ethics of the social work profession. 5. Prepare students to understand and to address issues pertaining to social and economic justice to include poverty, oppression, racism and discrimination. 6. Prepare students to sustain their effectiveness by instilling the value of continuing professional growth and development. D. Program Core Competencies The Social Work Program at Youngstown State University strives to develop the following social work competencies in students. Each competency is addressed by demonstration of abilities and practice behaviors.

5 Competency Identify as a professional social worker and conduct oneself accordingly. 1. advocate for client access to the services of social work; 2. practice personal reflection and self-correction to assure continual professional development; 3. attend to professional roles and boundaries 4. demonstrate professional demeanor in behavior, appearance, and communication; 5. engage in career-long learning; and 6. use supervision and consultation. Competency Apply social work ethical principles to guide professional practice. 7. recognize and manage personal values in a way that allows professional values to guide practice; 8. make ethical decisions by applying standards of the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics and, as applicable, of the International Federation of Social Workers/International Association of Schools of Social Work Ethics in Social Work, Statement of Principles; 9. tolerate ambiguity in resolving ethical conflicts; and 10. apply strategies of ethical reasoning to arrive at principled decisions. Competency Apply critical thinking to inform and communicate professional judgments. 11. distinguish, appraise, and integrate multiple sources of knowledge, including researchbased knowledge, and practice wisdom; 12. analyze models of assessment, prevention, intervention, and evaluations; and 13. demonstrate effective oral and written communication in working with individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities, and colleagues Competency Engage diversity and difference in practice. 14. recognize the extent to which a culture s structures and values many oppress, marginalize, alienate, or create or enhance privilege and power; 15. gain sufficient self-awareness to eliminate the influence of personal biases and values in working with diverse groups; 16. recognize and communicate their understanding of the importance of difference in shaping life experiences; and 17. view themselves as learners and engage those whom they work as informants.

6 Competency Advance human rights and social economical justice. 18. understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination; 19. advocate for human rights and social and economic justice; 20. engage in practices that advance social and economical justice. Competency Engage in research-informed practice and practice-informed research. 21. use practice experience to inform scientific inquiry and 22. use research evidence to inform practice Competency Apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment. 23. utilize conceptual frameworks to guide the processes of assessment, intervention, and evaluation; and 24. critique and apply knowledge to understand person and environment Competency Engage in policy practice to advance social and economic well-being and deliver effective social work services. 25. analyze, formulate, and advocate for policies that advance social well-being; and 26. collaborate with colleagues and clients for effective policy action. Competency Respond to context that shape practice. 27. continuously discover, appraise, and attend to changing locales, populations, scientific and technological developments, and emerging societal trends to provide relevant services; and 28. provide leadership in promoting sustainable changes in service delivery and practice to improve the quality of social services. Competency (a)-(d) Engage, assess, intervene, and evaluate with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Competency (a) Engagement Social Workers 29. substantively and affectively prepare for action with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities; 30. use empathy and other interpersonal skills; and 31. develop a manually agreed- on focus of work and desired outcomes.

7 Competency (b) Assessment Social Workers 32. collect, organize, and interpret client data; 33. assess client strengths and limitations; 34. develop mutually agreed-on intervention goals and objectives; and 35. select appropriate intervention strategies. Competency (c) Intervention 36. initiate actions to achieve organizational goals; 37. implement prevention interventions that enhance client capacities; 38. help clients resolve problems; 39. negotiate, mediate, and advocate for clients; and 40. facilitate transitions and endings. Competency (d) Evaluation 41. Social Workers critically analyze, monitor, and evaluate interventions.

8 BSW Program Curriculum The Department of Social Work offers the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Degree. A major in social work is comprised of 60 semester hours within the discipline. All students are required to develop a portfolio of their accomplishments documenting their growth from student to professional social worker. Portfolios should include copies of volunteer evaluations, homework assignments, term papers, essay exams which demonstrate critical thinking skills and other relevant assignments. The portfolio will be presented in the Integrated Capstone Seminar (SCWK 4827). Majors in social work must successfully complete the following courses: Pre-Social Work Courses Social Work 1510/Introduction to Social Work Social Work 2600/Health Issues for Social Workers Social Work 2622/Social Work Processes Social Work 2641/American Social Welfare Social Work 2642/HBSE 1 Social Work 2644/HBSE 2 Courses of the Social Work Major Social Work 3736/Social Work Methods with Individuals Social Work 3737/Social Work Methods with Groups Social Work 3738/Social Work Methods with Families Social Work 5822/Social Work Methods with Organizations and Communities Social Work 5823/Cultural Diversity in Social Work Practice Social Work 5820/Social Policy Social Work 3750/Analysis of Social Work Practice Data Social Work 3760/Research Methods for Social Workers Social Work 4825/Field Work in Social Services (two semesters) Social Work 4826/Integrative Field Work Seminar Social Work 4827/Integrated Capstone Seminar In addition to the required courses listed above, all majors must complete one of the following social work electives related to populations at risk: Social Work 3728/Social Services for Children Social Work 3730/Social Services and the Aged Social Work 3731/Social Services and the Disabled Social Work 4860/Seminar Special Topics Students are encouraged to take upper-division, elective coursework out of departments such as: Counseling, Psychology and Health Professions. Please Note: Students seeking a baccalaureate degree must complete at least 60 semester hours in courses numbered 2600 or higher; at least 48 of these 60 hours must be in courses numbered 3700 or higher.

9 The above social work courses must be taken in the proper sequence which includes completion of necessary prerequisites which are outlined in the Youngstown State University Bulletin and the BSW Program Curriculum Sheet. In addition to completing the above-mentioned courses within the social work major, BSW students must also take the following required support courses. To be eligible for admission to the social work major these courses must be completed with a grade of C or better: Psychology 1560/General Psychology (PS) Political Science 1560/American Government (SI) Sociology 1500/Introduction to Sociology (SI) Anthropology 1500/Introduction to Anthropology (SI) Philosophy 2630/Critical Thinking (ST) Religion 2601/Introduction to World Religions (SI) Philosophy 2625/Introduction to Professional Ethics (PS) In addition to completion of courses in the social work major and designated required support courses, BSW students must complete the following General Education Requirements*: ENGL 1550 & 1551 COMST 1545 MATH 2623 (MA) Natural Sciences (NS) 6 hours (one science course must include a lab) Social and Personal Awareness (SPA) The above required support courses along with general education requirements, provide BSW graduatewith a solid foundation in the liberal arts. This thoughtful integration of general education courses combined with social work support courses provide the foundation for professional courses to provide students a well-rounded educational experience which will enhance them as individuals and social work professionals. A minimum of 124 semester hours are required for the Bachelor of Social Work degree.

10 Sample Four-Year BSW Schedule Freshman Year Semester 1 Semester 2 ENGL s.h. (W) ENGL s.h. (W) SCWK s.h. Elective 3 s.h. SOCIO s.h. (SI) ANTHR s.h. (SI) PSYCH s.h. (PS) PHIL s.h. (ST) POLIT 1560 (604) 3 s.h. (SI) SCWK s.h. 15 s.h. 15 s.h. Sophomore Year Semester 1 Semester 2 SCWK s.h. SCWK s.h. (T) SCWK s.h. COMST s.h. SCWK s.h. Artistic & Lit. GER 3 s.h. Science GER 3 s.h. MATH s.h. Artistic & Lit. GER 3 s.h. RELIG s.h. 15 s.h. 15 s.h. Junior Year Semester 1 Semester 2 SCWK s.h. SCWK s.h. SCWK Opp. Pop. 3 s.h. SCWK s.h. Science GER 3 s.h. SCWK s.h. Sci. or Art & Lit. GER 3 s.h. Elective 3 s.h. PHIL s.h. Elective 3 s.h. 15 s.h. 15 s.h. Senior Year Semester 1 Semester 2 SCWK s.h. SCWK s.h. SCWK s.h. SCWK s.h. SCWK s.h. SCWK s.h. SCWK s.h. SCWK s.h. Elective 4 s.h. 15 s.h.. 19s.h The BSW Program applies general systems theory as its overall orienting philosophy for organizing program content. Students learn how to use the general systems perspective in analyzing the interrelationships between individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities, and society. Students who complete the BSW Program receive the professional foundation that is essential for beginning level social work practice. An appreciation for issues of diversity is imparted throughout the curriculum providing graduates with an understanding of the experiences, needs, and responses of individuals who have faced structural discrimination and oppression as a result of their differences. In addition, research as it relates to the practice of social work will be integrated in order to promote the evaluation of practice outcomes as well as

11 efforts toward the advancement of the social work profession s knowledge base. Finally, graduates of the BSW Program will acquire the values and ethical standards necessary to foster acceptance, mutual respect, fairness, and an overall commitment to social and economic justice in society. Exceptions to the Curriculum Students must meet the curricular requirements for a social work degree in effect at the time they initially and officially declare social work as a major. If a student enrolls in no courses for a year or more, the curriculum in effect at the time of re-entry will apply. The BSW curriculum is in compliance with the requirements of the Council on Social Work Education and it is therefore necessary for students to follow the curriculum in order that CSWE accreditation and the quality of students educational experience be maintained. Exceptions to required courses (substitutions) and/or the sequencing of courses are granted with faculty approval following written request by the student. To insure fairness to students and to maintain the integrity of the program the faculty review requests for exceptions with the following principles in mind: 1. The student shall not be required to extend the time required to complete a degree due to changes made in the curriculum during the course of the student s enrollment in the program. 2. The student shall not be required to take additional courses when changes in curriculum and subsequent course offerings occur. 3. The student shall not be required to extend the time required to complete a degree or take additional courses in the event that they were mis-advised and where evidence of the mis-advisement can be verified. 4. Exceptions are more likely granted where the overall integrity of the student s experience within the program is not seriously compromised. Good academic standing in the program contributes to the likelihood an exception will be granted. 5. It is the responsibility of the student to demonstrate and verify the conditions that led to the need for the exception request as well as to demonstrate and verify the consequences to the student if the exception is not granted. Admission to the BSW Program Declaring Pre Social Work as a Major: Students can declare pre social work as an academic major in two ways. Students can declare pre social work as their desired major on the Youngstown State University Undergraduate Admissions Application which is completed upon

12 initial entry into the University. Current students who are not pre social work majors may complete an Intra-University Transfer Request Form. This form is used to declare pre social work as a major and facilitates transfer of any student records to the Social Work Department. This form can be obtained from the department secretary or the office of the Dean, Bitonte College of Health and Human Services. Upon declaring pre social work as a major, students will be assigned an advisor. Academic Advising: Pre Social Work majors are advised by an academic advisor in the Dean s office in the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services (Cushwa Hall, Room 2064). Students need to make appointments 24 hours in advance in person or by telephone. Faculty advisors in the Department of Social Work assist students formally admitted to the social major. Such assistance helps students in planning their educational program, determining career choices and goals, overcoming educational or personal problems if appropriate, and completing the necessary steps in the admissions process. Students are assigned to specific department of social work faculty advisors according to the first letter of their last name. See the department administrative assistant to determine your academic advisor. Faculty advisors are available for consultation during posted departmental office hours and by appointment. It is suggested to make an appointment with advisor to assure their availability. Admission Requirements to the Social Work Major: Pre-social work majors desiring entry into the social work major are required to complete general education and support course requirements as well as criteria established in the Department of Social Work. Admission to the BSW Program is a selective process that considers objective academic requirements and qualitative attributes specific to the student. Students who have completed requirements necessary for admission and intend to register for SCWK 3736 (Social Work Methods with Individuals) must sign a posted roster in the Department of Social Work by the end of the 4 th week of the semester preceding the term in which they are requesting admission. Please Note: Registration for Summer and Fall Terms occurs Spring Semester. Therefore, students applying for admission to the program for either Summer or Fall Term must sign the posted roster by the end of the 4 th week of Spring Semester. The following objective components are reviewed for completion before admission to the BSW Program can be considered: 1. An overall GPA of 2.50 or better; 2. Successful completion (a grade of C or better) of the following courses according to sequencing: English 1550 and 1551, Communication 1545, Sociology 1500, Psychology 1560, Anthropology 1500, Political Science 1560, Philosophy 2630 and 2625, Religion 2601 and Social Work 1510, 2600, 2622, 2641, 2642, and 2644;

13 3. Completion and submission of the BSW Program Admission Application by the 4 th week of the semester preceding the term in which admission is being requested (Attachment C). Admission applications are available in the Department of Social Work. Students must also sign the SCWK 3736 list (no later than the 4 th week) posted on the Department of Social Work door (3030A) indicating the semester they request admission to the program. In addition to reviewing the above materials for completeness, the admissions committee will evaluate the following qualitative concerns by conducting an admissions interview. 1. Reasons for wishing to become a social worker; 2. Personal experiences and volunteer work in which the student has given help to other persons; 3. The student s understanding as to the role of social work in contemporary society; 4. Indications of the student s emotional maturity, capacity to handle stress, ability to empathetically relate to others, and willingness to work with persons from diverse backgrounds. Following a review of the above objective criteria and qualitative concerns, a disposition will be made regarding the student s readiness for admission to the program. Once a student has been notified of his/her admission into the BSW Program, he/she will be assigned a faculty advisor and is expected to sign a Student Contract (Attachment E). Signing this contract completes the admissions process. The Student Contract states that all students are expected to meet the academic and ethical standards of the Department of Social Work and the University. These standards and requirements are summarized in the BSW Program Handbook, as well as in the Youngstown State University Undergraduate Bulletin, the BSW Program s Curriculum Sheet, the BSW Field Practicum Manual, and the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities and Conduct (Attachment F). Academically, the student is expected to complete all prescribed course work to fulfill both departmental and university requirements for the baccalaureate degree in social work. A 2.50 grade point average must be maintained through graduation. Transfer Credits: The Department of Social Work maintains very rigorous guidelines regarding transfer courses in the social work content area. Proficiency examinations are not utilized by the Department of Social Work. However, courses taken and successfully completed in another CSWE accredited program by incoming transfer students will be considered for credit in the BSW Program at Youngstown State University. Students requesting transfer credit for courses taken in another CSWE-accredited program will be asked to submit syllabi providing goals and objectives, assignments and course descriptions. These materials will be evaluated by the Social Work Department Chairperson. As a result of that evaluation, students will be given transfer

14 credit for the appropriate course within Youngstown State University s BSW Program Curriculum. Students transferring from programs lacking CSWE accreditation are given transfer credit consideration for the following introductory level courses: Social Work 1510 (Introduction to Social Work), Social Work 2641 (American Social Welfare) and Social Work 2622 (Social Work Processes). Consideration for transfer credit in these cases has consisted of reviewing syllabi for goals and objectives, assignments, and course descriptions to assure consistency with CSWE standards. Because other social work courses in the Youngstown State University BSW Program s curriculum require sequencing, specific prerequisites and attention to critical content, additional transfer credits for social work courses and field practicum courses from programs lacking CSWE accreditation cannot be considered. This ensures that students graduating from the BSW Program at Youngstown State University have received a social work education consistent with accreditation standards. Credit for Life/Work Experience: The BSW Program at Youngstown State University does not provide any credit towards field work practice or course work based on life and/or previous work experience of a student. Consistent with the Council on Social Work Education s Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards students are expected to complete a minimum of 450 hours in BSW field practice in a structured, supervised field setting. In addition to maintaining academic standards, students admitted to the BSW Program are expected to abide by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics. The NASW Code of Ethics is regularly discussed as a result of didactic applications in the classroom setting. Students are also expected to comply with the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities and Conduct which is a university document made available to students at the time of initial enrollment. Application for the BSW Field Practicum: A student must be a social work major, have gained full admission to the BSW Program, and have successfully completed all required social work courses in order to be eligible for the BSW field experience (completion of all required social work courses except SCWK 3737, 3738, 4826, 4827, 5822 and 5823). Eligible students must sign the list posted on the Social Work Department door (3030A) by the end of the 4 th week of the semester preceding the term in which field placement is requested. Please Note: Registration for Summer and Fall Terms occurs Spring Semester. Therefore, students planning to begin field work either Summer or Fall Term must sign the posted roster by the end of the 4 th week of Spring Semester. Academic records will be reviewed by the BSW Internship Coordinator to ensure students are eligible to enroll in field courses. Students will be notified of their eligibility by mail. If a student is eligible for field, the eligibility notification will include a BSW field application and further instructions/deadlines.

15 Policy Regarding Students with Criminal Records Qualified students who have been convicted of misdemeanor or felony offenses may be admitted to the Bachelor of Social Work program. However, field internship opportunities many be restricted due to agency prohibitions pertaining to the engagement of students in agency work in possession of criminal records. Additionally, students should be aware that state licensure in social work many not be possible for individuals with past convictions. Students with convictions are advised to become informed of requirements pertaining to social work licensure and possible avenues of appeal as they consider their enrollment in the BSW program and the limitations prior convictions many impose on their ability to practice the profession of social work. Retention in the BSW Program Academic Suspension: Academic suspension of a student from the BSW Program is consistent with procedures employed by the University. As is indicated in the Undergraduate Bulletin, students may be warned, placed on probation and/or suspended as a result of poor academic performance. The length of suspension from the University is dependent upon the number of suspensions and extenuating circumstances surrounding the student s poor academic performance. Students are expected to complete coursework in the major with a grade of C or better. Students may repeat courses and work with advisors and faculty to improve performance. All courses in the social work major, including the field practicum and seminars, are accompanied by syllabi and/or in the case of field, a manual and evaluation forms that clearly outline expectations of student performance. Goals, objectives, written assignments, tests, grading policies, etc. are clearly defined and provided to the student via the syllabus. An academic suspension of one year will apply for students receiving two final grades lower than a C in social work courses 2622 through This may be a repeat of the same course or two different courses. Suspended students will not be permitted to enroll in any social work courses until a reinstatement plan is completed. Reinstatement following Academic Suspension It is the responsibility of the student to demonstrate to the Admissions and Retention Committee (ARC) that he/she has succeeded in efforts to correct deficits that led to the suspension. For reinstatement to be considered, the student must request in writing to meet with the ARC within six weeks beyond the date of suspension to develop a reinstatement plan. The ARC will either approve, amend and approve, or disapprove the plan. To be considered for reinstatement, the student must submit in writing his/her request to meet with the ARC no less than four (4) weeks prior to the semester for which they plan to register following the one-year suspension. The ARC will then review the student s work in completing the plan. If the student has met the requirements of the plan, the student will be reinstated. If the student has not met the requirements of the plan, he/she will be expelled from the social work

16 program. BSW Field Work Suspension A suspension from BSW field work will apply to students receiving a grade of NC in their field work placement. This suspension can be short-term (i.e., the length of time between two (2) semesters) or it can be at least one (1) full semester depending on the nature of the problem(s) producing the grade of NC. Reinstatement following Field Work Suspension It is the responsibility of the student to demonstrate to the ARC that he/she has made effort to correct deficits that led to the suspension. To accomplish this, the student must request in writing his/her plan for the reinstatement within one (1) week following suspension and meet with the ARC within three (3) weeks following suspension to propose a reinstatement plan. The ARC reserves the right to consult with the field instructor or any other relevant parties. The ARC will then consider the plan for reinstatement. The ARC will approve, amend and approve, or disapprove the plan. To be considered for reinstatement to field work, the student must submit in writing his/her request to meet with the ARC to review the completion of the plan. The time for this meeting will be specified in the plan. If the student has met the requirements of the plan, they will be reinstated to field work; if they have not met the requirements of the plan, they will be expelled from the social work program. Criteria for Expulsion from either BSW Program or BSW Field Work The circumstance(s) producing of NC may result in expulsion from the BSW program or field work if a majority of the ARC vote in favor of expulsion. Criteria for expulsion can include, but are not limited to the following: failure to complete the reinstatement plan for either academic or field work suspension violation of the Code of Ethics sexual harassment unauthorized disclosure of confidential information fighting, use of vulgar or abusive language or conduct theft, vandalism, willful destruction of property reporting to the field site (or other sites associated with field work) under the influence of alcohol or mood altering chemicals or possession of such at work sites

17 possession of weapons on field site property or while conducting field work business intention, reckless or negligent mistreatment of clients or other field site staff falsification of any field site records or documents refusal to perform duties as assigned by field instructor/agency director negligent or wrongful performance of duties as recorded by field instructor or agency director excessive absenteeism or tardiness poor work performance as based on field site s evaluation Non-academic Suspension: Non-academic suspension and/or termination from the BSW program are based on student violations of the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities and Conduct as well as the NASW Code of Ethics. The Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities and Conduct is provided to all students upon admission to the University. A summary of the NASW Code of Ethics is provided to all social work majors as part of the BSW Program Student Handbook. In addition, the BSW Program Student Handbook also contains a summary of conduct regulations as prescribed in the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities and Conduct. Social work majors formally consent to abide by the above two documents by reviewing and signing a departmental Student Contract. This contract indicates that students understand and agree to comply with the above standards as well as those standards outlined in the BSW Field Manual and within the BSW Program Student Handbook. Violations of the above regulatory documents that come to the attention of the Department of Social Work would immediately be processed starting with the departmental Admissions and Retention Committee. The violation would be reported to the chair of the aforementioned committee who would then arrange for a meeting with the student and the entire committee. At that time, the student would be given the opportunity to discuss the specified incident and answer any questions the committee may have. Following that meeting, deliberations would take place to formulate a disposition regarding the student s status in the BSW Program. The student would be notified by mail of the committee s decision. In deliberating whether a student should be terminated from the BSW Program, consideration must be given to the nature/gravity of the incident, history of past difficulties, implications for future clients, and the appropriateness of therapeutic intervention in resolving the issue and continuing with current academic pursuits. All of the above are weighed carefully by the faculty of the Department of Social Work in cases where the student has not been formally dismissed at

18 the University level. The final disposition reflects a thoughtful process that evaluates student needs and capacity as well as concerns for future interactions with vulnerable client groups. Student Grievance Procedures: All students have the right to appeal disciplinary decisions based on academic and non-academic performance. Grievances based on termination for academic reasons should begin with an attempt at resolution between the student and the Admissions and Retention Committee. If resolution cannot be reached, a hearing with the department chairperson may be requested. In non-academic matters, the student may also grieve the decision of the Admissions and Retention Committee and request an appeal meeting. Again, failure to resolve issues at a committee level could be followed by an appeal to the Chair of the Department of Social Work. Failure to achieve resolution at a departmental level gives the student the option to pursue concerns through the Office of the Dean in the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services where the Department of Social Work is located. If the student remains dissatisfied, institutional review of the matter can be sought in which case the student would proceed by following Undergraduate Student Academic Grievance Procedures which are outlined in the Handbook of Student Rights, Responsibilities and Conduct. Student Opportunities for Non-Curricular Engagement Scholarships and Financial Aid: The University has a comprehensive program of financial assistance which includes scholarships, loans, grants-in-aid, and part-time employment. All these programs are administered by the Director of Scholarships and Financial Aid located in Jones Hall. (Please see the Youngstown State University Bulletin for details). In addition to the above means for obtaining financial assistance, the Department of Social Work annually awards a substantial number of scholarships/awards. Please contact the Department of Social Work office or visit the YSU Department of Social Work website for an updated listing. Scholarship application deadlines are in February of the academic year preceding the distribution of the scholarship/award. Social Work Honor Society: Social Work majors are encouraged to consider membership in Zeta Phi Alpha, a national honor society for social work students. Criteria for eligibility in Zeta Phi Alpha include: a declared social work major, sophomore status, completion of 12 semester hours of social work courses, an overall grade point average of 3.50 and no grade lower than a B in social work courses. Invitations are extended in the spring semester of each year via a letter for students who meet the requirements of admission to the honor society. Student Social Work Association: The Student Social Work Association is the primary structure through which students interested in the social work profession express their ideas and concerns about their education and career in social work. Officers of this organization are asked to serve on standing program committees so to ensure that social work majors have input in decisions relevant to Program policy, curriculum, instruction and administration. Members of the Student Social Work Association meet regularly and engage in a number of significant service projects within the Youngstown community. Food and clothing drives and

19 other creative fund raising activities are among the many efforts that this group has made over the years in providing in-kind assistance to community individuals and agencies in need. Students within the association have also participated in scholarly activities to include planning professional conferences and paper presentations. All student social work majors are strongly encouraged to join and actively participate in the many valuable activities of the Student Social Work Association. National Alliance on Mental Illness, YSU Chapter: The NAMI YSU offers students opportunities for engagement in campus and community based activities germane to the concerns of persons and families experiencing conditions of mental illness. The National Association of Social Workers: All social work interns are strongly urged to join the National Association of Social Workers. Student members of NASW can receive all of the benefits of membership for a significantly reduced rate. Benefits include: *Subscription to Social Work, Journal of the National Association of Social Workers *Subscription to NASW News *Subscription to the Ohio State Chapter newsletter *Availability of low-cost insurance protection (including malpractice insurance) *NASW JobLink *Availability of information specialists who can assist with program and policy issues, literature searches, and more *Money-saving discounts on journal subscriptions, NASW Visa credit card and other financial services The NASW student membership application is available in the Department of Social Work office. NASW Ohio Chapter, Region IV All social work majors, but particularly student interns, are advised to attend the local NASW meetings held monthly. Region IV holds both business meetings and continuing education programs. Information about meeting times, dates, sites and topics are available by contacting the Internship Coordinator. There are also many opportunities at the state level for students to become actively involved in a variety of NASW-Ohio Chapter committees. Departmental Policy on Discrimination Youngstown State University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination with respect to gender, race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, and disability. Consistent with the goals of that policy, student social work majors are treated with equity and respect throughout their educational experience and are expected to hold the same regard for their colleagues. The Department of Social Work embraces the aforementioned policy. Violations by students can

20 result in non-academic suspension as well as disciplinary action by the University. Departmental Policy on Privileged Communication Social workers must have a solid foundation of knowledge as well as a thorough understanding of personal strengths and limitations as they relate to professional practice. The faculty of the Department of Social Work are committed to providing quality classroom instruction and advisement that will enhance the abilities of students completing degree programs. Students are encouraged to consult with faculty advisors around both academic and professional matters that may arise during the course of their learning experience at Youngstown State University. There are times when sensitive issues concerning students may come to the attention of a faculty member. This may result from direct communication with the student or as a result of information from an external source. Consistent with professional values, faculty would be expected to maintain confidentiality. However, if the aforementioned information was considered to have deleterious consequences for the student, for clients with whom the student has contact, or for the social work profession at large, involved faculty would be ethically obliged to act on this matter. Consequently, faculty members may collaborate with each other around the issue to seek resolution. The student would be contacted in such matters and involved in the resolution process. Departmental Policy on Sexual Harassment Consistent with the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics, the Department of Social Work is committed to securing a work and academic environment which is safe, healthful and free from sexual harassment, menacing, stalking or other hostile conduct. Sexual harassment includes sexual advances, sexual solicitation, requests for sexual favors, and other unsolicited verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Violations of this policy could result in suspension or expulsion of the student from the Social Work Program as well as disciplinary action by the University. It is the policy of Youngstown State University that no member of the University community shall sexually harass another. Any employee or student will be subject to disciplinary action for violation of this policy. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when: 1. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual s employment or education. 2. Submission to, or rejection of, such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic or employment decisions affecting the individual. 3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual s academic or professional performance or creating an intimidating,

21 hostile or offensive employment, education, or living environment. Disability Services: Anyone requiring special adaptations or accommodations should inform the instructor as soon as possible. In accordance with University procedures, if an individual has a documented disability and requires accommodation to obtain equal access in any department course, must contact the Office of Disability Services in the Center for Student Progress at the beginning of each semester or when given an assignment for which an accommodation is required. Students with disabilities must verify their eligibility through the Office of Disability Services. The phone number of the office of Disability Services is: (330) DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WORK FACULTY Dr. Charlla Allen, Assistant Professor of Social Work, received her B.S. in psychology from Central State University in 1978, an MSW from the University of Cincinnati in 1986, and a Ph.D. in Social Work from the Ohio State University in Dr. Melody Hyppolite, Assistant Professor of Social Work, received her B.S. in psychology from Kentucky Wesleyan College in 1998, an MSW from Spalding University in 2002, and a Ph.D. in Social Work from the University of Louisville in Dr. Azadeh Masalehdan Block, Assistant Professor of Social Work, received her B.A. in Clinical Psychology Child Development from Tufts University in 2002, an MSW from the University of Pittsburgh in 2006, and a Ph.D. in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh in Dr. Shirley Keller, Professor of Social Work, received her B.A. from Michigan State University and her M.S.S.A. and Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve University in 1981 and 1999 respectively. Dr. Dennis Morawski, Chair of the Social Work Department and Associate Professor of Social Work, received his B.S. from Lake Superior State University in 1978, his M.S.W. from Wayne State in 1980, and earned a Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee in Dr. Thelma Silver, Professor of Social Work, received her B.A. and M.S.W. from McGill University in 1969 and 1971 and a Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve University in Dr. Bonnie Young Laing, Associate Professor of Social Work, received her B.A. in Psychology from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania in 1990, her MSW from West Virginia University in 1992 and her Ph.D. from Virginia Commonwealth University in A number of part-time faculty teach for the department on a regular basis. These faculty members are active members in the social work profession.

22 Faculty regularly participate in local, state, and national conferences, provide many community services, publish regularly, serve on community and state boards, and are involved in promoting the social work profession and providing for the social welfare of others in various ways. The faculty of the Social Work Program is dedicated and committed to providing leadership, service and education to the community and citizens of Northeastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. Department of Social Work Staff: Theresa Swindler, MSW, LISW-S, BSW Internship Coordinator Barbara Widomski, BSAS, Administrative Assistant Links Council on Social Work Education Educational Policy and accreditation Standards ( ) NASW Code of Ethics and Social Worker Safety Guidelines ( )

23 Field Education Manual

24 TABLE OF CONTENTS: Field Education 1 A. Field Education as the Signature Pedagogy 1 Field Work Process 1 A. Criteria for Selection of Field Sites 2 B. Employment Based Field Education 3 C. Criteria for Selection of Field Work Instructors 3 D. Ongoing Evaluation of Field Sites 4 E. Field Instructor Training 4 F. Liaison Activities Between YSU and Field Sites 4 G. Student Eligibility for Field Work 4 H. Procedures for Planning Field Work Experience 5 I. Background Checks for Interns Beginning Field Placement 6 J. Policy Regarding Students with Criminal Records 6 K. Health/Medical Related Requirements 7 L. Time Required for Field Work Experience 7 M. Social Work Internship Attendance Requirements 7 N. Field Seminars for Students in Field Work 10 O. Student Evaluation in Field Work 10 Field Work Suspension or Explusion 11 A. Suspension 11 B. Reinstatement Following Field Work Suspension 12 Guidelines Involved Changing a Fieldwork Placement 12 A. Student Request for Change 12 B. Field Instructor Request for Change 13 C. YSU Social Work Internship Coordinator Requests Change 13 Student Field Experience Counseling 14

25 Annual Social Work Day 14 Licensure for Social Workers in the State of Ohio 15 A. Procedures for Licensure 15 B. Possible Denial and Disciplinary Action Regarding Licenses 15

26 1 This manual serves as the syllabus reflecting the policies of Field Education/Internship, course SCWK Outlined are the policies and procedures of the field instruction component of the Youngstown State University Bachelor of Social Work Program. FIELD EDUCATION The Department of Social Work at Youngstown State University is committed to an integrated academic-field curriculum. This curriculum is in agreement with the Council on Social Work Education s curriculum policy statement for baccalaureate degree programs in social work education. The professional social work competencies sought and acquired through course work are reinforced and expanded in actual social work field education agency settings. Social work field education provides experiences which will challenge students to demonstrate social work competencies through direct application through work with clients in agencies. Students can test his/her knowledge of problem solving and intervention. Class and field are inseparable components of the student s educational experience; classroom teacher and field instructor play roles which are interdependent and essential to the educational process. The main objective of the field practicum is to produce a professionally reflective, self-evaluating, knowledgeable, and developing generalist social worker. A. FIELD EDUCATION AS THE SIGNATURE PEDAGOGY The central form of instruction and learning for students to develop their role of practitioner begins with signature pedagogy. Pedagogical norms integrate and connect theory into practice (Shulman, 2005). Field Education is the signature pedagogy in Social Work, connecting both theory and concepts from the classroom to the practice setting. It is an assertion of social work education that classroom and field are integral components to the curriculum, and each assists in the development of competencies for professional practice. Field education is coordinated, evaluated, and supervised based on the student s demonstration of achieving core program competencies through practice behaviors. FIELD WORK PROCESS Careful planning of the student s field work experience is critical. The field instructor, student, and YSU social work internship coordinator will develop a plan specifying opportunities and tasks that will allow the student to demonstrate application of social work competencies. Field activities are designed to offer students opportunities to apply practice behaviors as evidence of core competencies.