THE SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK Okanagan Campus MSW FIELD EXPERIENCE HANDBOOK

Transcription

1 THE SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK Okanagan Campus MSW FIELD EXPERIENCE HANDBOOK

2 August 2012 Dear Field Instructors and Students: Welcome to another year of study, practice, and the excitement of learning! We are proud of our program, our students, and our community connections, and we look forward this next year to developing an ongoing relationship with you. Practicum is generally the most satisfying aspect of students work towards their degrees and our field collaborators benefit from their energy and optimism. Our students gain vast amounts of learning, not only concerning practice and theory, but in the areas of ethics, passion, and maintaining balance and perspective in spite of a myriad of pressures in essence, how to be an effective professional. There is also fun and our hope is that you all find enjoyment in your practicum experience. On behalf of the UBC School of Social Work (Okanagan campus), thank you to all the Field Instructors and agency management personnel who support our students in this vital component of their learning. Your participation is very much appreciated and contributes to the high quality of our MSW program. This Field Education Manual is continually being updated. To ensure you have the most up to date version, please refer to the Field Education page on our website at As always, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, your feedback is most welcome. Field Education Coordinator 2

3 CONTENTS SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK DIRECTORY... 8 Staff... 8 Faculty... 8 Faculty Liaisons (Sessionals)... 8 GENERAL INFORMATION... 9 Program Background... 9 Mission Statement Philosophy Social Work Codes of Ethics and Values British Columbia Association of Social Workers Philosophy Purpose Accountability BCASW Social Work Declaration Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) COURSE DESCRIPTIONS SOCW 506 COURSE DESCRIPTION Goals Learning Objectives SOCW 505 COURSE DESCRIPTION Goals Learning objectives FIELD PRACTICE COURSE REQUIREMENTS

4 Student Placement Agreement Student Acknowledgement Student Accident Insurance Medical Coverage Transportation PSSG Criminal Record Checks RCMP Criminal Record Searches Time Requirements And Pre/Co-Requisites Absences Statutory Holidays and Other Breaks Holy Days Field Education Orientations Field Placement Learning Plan (Learning Goals) Format for SOCW 505 Learning Goals Goal Development Process for SOCW 505 Learning Goals Field Placement Learning Contract SOCW Faculty Liaison visits & contact STANDARD OF CARE EXPECTED BY STUDENTS Conducting Research in Practicum Academic Accommodation (for student with disabilities) Professional and Personal Relationships Student Concerns FIELD PLACEMENT PROCESS Selection of Agencies and Field Instructors for Placements Agency Criteria

5 Field Instructor Criteria Field Instructors from Outside of the Agency Distance Placements SOCW Assignment of Students to Field Placements SOCW Securing a Placement Process and Guidelines SOCW 505 Placement Application Form (Proposal) SOCW Practicum in the Place of Employment Criteria for Approval Process for Approval FIELD EDUCATION POLICIES Combining Employment and a Practicum Expenses Student Safety in Practicum Settings Personal Safety with Clients Safety When on Home Visits Responding to a Bomb Threat Client Suicide Prevention Harassment/ Discrimination Protection of Privacy & Freedom of Information Professional Liability Confidentiality Student Confidentiality Policy Statement General Guidelines Professional Conduct for Social Work Students

6 General Policy Advancement Review Procedure for Alleged Unprofessional Conduct Personal Suitability for the Social Work Profession Preamble Purpose Policy Stage 1: Review Stage 2: Formal Review (Meeting with the Director) Stage 2 meetings will be led by the Director and the agenda will be as follows: Stage 3: Decision on Termination Appeal Conflict of Interest Student at Risk of Failing GUIDELINES FOR RESOLVING PRACTICUM ISSUES ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Field Education Coordinator Faculty Liaison Field Instructor Practicum Student EVALUATION SOCW Mid-Term Evaluation Process SOCW Final Evaluation Process SOCW Mid-Term Evaluation Process

7 SOCW Final Evaluation Process SOCW 505 Practicum Portfolio (Learning Outcome Evidence Binder) Portfolio Format and Contents Grading INTERN PLACEMENT TRACKING (IPT) SOFTWARE APPENDIX I FIELD PLACEMENT LEARNING CONTRACT FOR SOCW APPENDIX II STUDENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM APPENDIX III GUIDELINES FOR FACULTY LIAISON VISITS

8 SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK DIRECTORY STAFF ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Sandra Robinson (250) FIELD EDUCATION COORDINATOR FACULTY Edward Taylor (Director) (250) Rachelle Hole (250) Judy Gillespie (250) Brian Rasmussen (250) Daniel Salhani (250) Dixon Sookraj (250) Shirley Chau (250) Susan Hillock (250) Mary Ann Murphy (250) FACULTY LIAISONS (SESSIONALS) In order to best serve our students and community partners the School of Social Work may hire additional social work professionals to act in the role of Faculty Liaison between the UBC, students and the community during practicum. Both regular faculty and sessional liaisons may fulfill the official role of Faculty Liaison. Please contact the Field Education Coordinator for the contact details for the additional Faculty Liaison personnel. 8

9 GENERAL INFORMATION This MSW Field Education Manual has been developed to provide information on the overall administration and management of the field education program and to clarify the purpose, policies and procedures of the field practicum component of the MSW program. The field education standards meet the Canadian Association of Social Work Education (CASWE) requirements outlined in Field Education Standards at the Second University Level. It is expected that students will be actively engaged in their own learning and will take responsibility, with their Field Instructors, for designing a practicum that will meet their needs and fulfill the expectations of the university. The UBC School of Social Work (Okanagan campus) is committed to ongoing feedback and redesign of the MSW program and the field manual in order to achieve a high standard of excellence in teaching and learning. In this document, the terms practice, practicum and placement may be used interchangeably to refer to the student s practice experience in the field. Questions or comments regarding MSW practicum should be directed to the Field Education office, ask.field@ubc.ca PROGRAM BACKGROUND The School of Social Work, University of British Columbia (UBC) initiated the Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program in the fall of The full description of the MSW program is outlined on the School of Social Work website. Please refer to the UBC Okanagan Academic Calendar and the UBC website for institution-wide policies, procedures and guidelines. The Canadian Association for Social Work Education s (2008) accreditation standard SM 6.1 states that: The objectives of field education at the second professional degree level are the development of an advanced practice competence and the preparation of a professionally reflective, self-evaluating, knowledgeable and developing social worker. In compliance with this standard the UBC School of Social Work (Okanagan Campus) uses the development of competency for practice as the framework for our MSW practica. Through the MSW practicum students advance their professional practice competence through integrating and applying knowledge to practice, and performing and developing practice skills. Our practicum model involves faculty working closely with students to define those skills, areas of knowledge, and professional behaviours believed to be necessary for competent social work practice at the graduate level. Using this model, materials and processes have been developed to assist students and Field Instructors in describing learning opportunities, defining learning goals, and evaluating student performance. 9

10 MISSION STATEMENT Informed by a vision of social justice, the School of Social Work promotes social well-being, change, healing, and growth at multiple levels. We are committed to fostering the integration of varied and diverse theoretical perspectives which contribute to holding central the dynamic interplay between individuals and their environments. Recognition is given to the impact of harmful and oppressive environments, our interdependence, and the human need for caring, loving and sustaining relationships throughout the life course. We are committed to building collaborative relationships with communities and organizations to create change spanning the continuum from personal to societal for all, including marginalized populations. The School also addresses critical social issues integral to the Okanagan region. In particular, we acknowledge the injustices Indigenous peoples have experienced; their strengths and capacities, their contributions to social work knowledge and practice, and their rights to self-determination. Striving for excellence in teaching, practice, research, ongoing professional development, and community service, we share knowledge with local, provincial, national and global communities. Undergraduate and graduate programs advance the ideals of international, interdisciplinary, and interprofessional education. The School promotes the values of diversity, creativity, stewardship, leadership and innovation in the teaching-learning process. Our programs develop social workers who are competent, ethical, critical thinkers, and reflective in their practice. PHILOSOPHY Within the context of the social work profession, the design and delivery of the program emphasize the key values of diversity, collaboration, participation and integrity. The program fosters an inclusive climate of mutual respect, trust and support in which students engage in a reflective process of personal and intellectual development. Challenged by issues of diversity, oppression and contemporary social conditions, students analyze the social construction of social issues. Students develop the ability to integrate fundamental social work values, knowledge and skills and the capacity to think critically to clarify their assumptions and articulate their own positions relative to dominant authorities and established institutions. Students and faculty engage in teaching/learning experiences, which are highly interactive, value driven, and competency-based. The program promotes collaborative partnerships of students, faculty, consumers and the professional and academic community in creating a responsive and innovative program for practitioners well-grounded in social work theory, research and practice. 10

11 SOCIAL WORK CODES OF ETHICS AND VALUES Ethical behaviour is at the core of the social work profession. The MSW curriculum conforms to the codes of ethics governing the profession. All students and field placement personnel, both from the faculty and in the community are expected to adhere to the British Columbia and Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW/BCASW) Codes of Ethics in all practice situations. A description of each Associations Code of Ethics follows. BRITISH COLUMBIA ASSOCIATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS The BCASW Code of Ethics can be found on the BCASW website and should be reviewed by all students and Field Instructors. The key elements of the document are discussed below. PHILOSOPHY The profession of social work is founded on humanitarian and egalitarian ideals. Social workers believe in the intrinsic worth and dignity of every human being and are committed to the values of acceptance, self-determination and respect of individuality. They believe in the obligation of all people, individually and collectively, to provide resources, services and opportunities for the overall benefit of humanity. Social workers are dedicated to the welfare and self-realization of human beings; to the development and disciplined use of scientific knowledge regarding human and societal behaviours; to the development of resources to meet individual, group, national and international needs and aspirations; and to the achievement of social justice for all. Social workers are pledged to serve without discrimination on any grounds of race, ethnicity, language, religion, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, age, abilities, economic status, political affiliation or national ancestry. PURPOSE Social work is a profession committed to the goal of effecting social changes in society and the ways in which individuals develop within their society for the benefit of both. Advancement toward this purpose is achieved through the complementarity of social reform and therapeutic approaches premised in the belief that social conditions of humanity can be bettered. The practice of social work has a primary focus on patterns of psychosocial relationships between people and the socio-economic resources, services and opportunities of their respective societies. The functions of social work include helping people to develop individual and collective social problemsolving skills; enhancing self-determination and the adaptive and developmental capacities of people; advocating, promoting and acting to obtain a socially just distribution of societal resources; and facilitating social connections between people and their societal resources. 11

12 ACCOUNTABILITY Social workers are accountable to the people they serve, to their profession and to society. This accountability is achieved by adherence to the philosophy, purpose and standard of practice determined by the profession. Failure to fulfill the obligation of this Code of Ethics may result in disciplinary procedures and appropriate consequences under the statutory or non-statutory authority of a recognized regulatory body. BCASW SOCIAL WORK DECLARATION As a member of the profession of social work, social workers commit to fulfill, to the best of their abilities, the following obligations: 1. I will regard the well being of the persons I serve as my primary professional obligation. 2. I will fulfill my obligations and responsibilities with integrity. 3. I will be competent in the performance of the services and functions I undertake on behalf of the persons I serve. 4. I will act in a conscientious, diligent and efficient manner. 5. I will respect the intrinsic worth of persons I serve in my professional relationships with them. 6. I will protect the confidentiality of all professionally acquired information. I will disclose such information only when properly authorized or when obligated legally or professionally to do so. 7. I will ensure that outside interests do not jeopardize my professional judgement, independence or competence. 8. I will work for the creation and maintenance of workplace conditions and policies consistent with the standard of practice set by this Code. 9. I will act to promote excellence in the social work profession. 10. I will act to effect social change for the overall benefit of humanity. CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS (CASW) In 1926, the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) was formed. British Columbia social workers belonged to a branch of CASW until 1956 when the BCASW was formed as a separate society. BCASW has been an organizational member and affiliated with the CASW since that time. Their affiliation is reflected in the similarity of their codes of ethics, with minor variations occurring in the social worker's ethical responsibilities to the workplace and a definition of best interest of client. In 2005 the CASW adopted a new Code of Ethics and published Guidelines for Ethical Practice. The UBC School of 12

13 Social Work MSW program uses these documents as a reference for decisions regarding professional performance of students. COURSE DESCRIPTIONS SOCW 506 COURSE DESCRIPTION The requirements for successful completion of the foundational field practicum in the MSW program are provided in the SOCW 506 course outline. Once eligible all students completing the MSW program must be registered in this six (6) credit course and assigned a Faculty Liaison from the University of British Columbia. The practicum occurs in a supervised setting where the student applies generalist practice knowledge, skills, interventions, and ethics. Generalist practice can include individual, family, group, and community; organizational development; and policy change. Completion of the practicum prepares students for initial professional practice with various client constituencies. GOALS The overall goals for this generalist field practicum are to: Integrate classroom knowledge through application to agency-based practice experiences through the assessment, synthesis and integration of micro and macro perspectives Develop a professional social work knowledgebase Develop generalist practice skills Develop professional judgment that demonstrates the values, ethics and norms of the social work profession Facilitate self-reflection and critical evaluation of professional responsibilities and behaviours in order to enhance conscious use of self in professional practice Value the role of evidence-based and evidence-informed practice LEARNING OBJECTIVES The learning outcomes expected of students upon completion of the SOCW 506 practicum are: to examine the professional role and responsibilities associated with social work practice in that practicum setting, and use appropriate opportunities proactively to practice generalist social 13

14 work skills with clients; to understand and analyze the organizational context of the practicum setting, its philosophy and service delivery model, and participate as a team member working collaboratively within the organization; to describe and critically analyze the organizational, community and legislative context in which the practicum setting currently provides its services to clients, and be familiar with key community resources and current social issues affecting the agency; to articulate a multi level intervention model of planned change and work with client groups in a variety of roles, such as counseling, advocacy, education, group work and community development, appropriate to the client and the setting; to identify and begin to resolve some key ethical issues that arise in the practicum setting with reference to the CASW/BCASW Codes of Ethics and ethical decision making models; to set and meet individualized learning goals related to substantive and/or technical aspects of the practicum, and; to assess one s learning needs, and proactively create and access learning opportunities and resources to meet those needs during the practicum, within the context of lifelong learning SOCW 505 COURSE DESCRIPTION The requirements for successful completion of the advanced field practicum in the MSW program are provided in the SOCW 505 course outline. Once eligible all students completing the MSW program must be registered in this six (6) credit course and assigned a Faculty Liaison from the University of British Columbia. This advanced practicum in the MSW program is built on previous foundational learning and advanced social work knowledge gained throughout the MSW curricula. The practicum is individually designed to address the student s educational needs and professional development under the supervision of an approved Field Instructor. Learning experiences are provided to support the processes of critical analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of knowledge, and the application of advanced practice skills. GOALS The overall goals for this advanced field practicum component are to: 14

15 Integrate classroom knowledge through application to agency-based practice experiences through the assessment, synthesis and integration of micro and macro perspectives. Expand the professional knowledge base of students. Practice and refine advanced level social work practice skills. Facilitate students critical evaluation of their professional behaviour and enhance their consciousness of themselves as professional social workers. Develop professional judgment that demonstrates the values, ethics, and norms of the social work profession. Develop advanced, specialized or supervisory social work roles. Value the role of scholarship and develop the capability to undertake practice related research. LEARNING OBJECTIVES Upon completion of this course, students will have achieved the following learning objectives in advanced social work competency. Social Work Values and Ethics Recognize situations in which one s own biases may pose barriers to effective or ethical practice and seek to modify reactions or behaviours as needed. Consistently practice within the ethical and value framework of the social work profession within an agency setting. Critically analyze situations that pose ethical dilemmas and seek further resolution. Cultural Diversity Honour, value, and respect the diversity of client value systems, cultural norms, ethics, moral beliefs, abilities, and behaviours; and identify strengths in clients on which to build helping efforts. Communicate effectively and use appropriate intervention skills with individuals, families, colleagues, and community persons who are different in respect to race/ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, physical and mental ability, ideology, values, and lifestyle. Social Welfare Policy and Services 15

16 Critically analyze societal and agency policies that negatively affect clients, particularly in relation to oppressed groups, and identify appropriate actions to effect change. Understand the practical, theoretical and legal concepts underlying agency policy. Use research findings to determine optimal modes of service delivery to clients, particularly those who are members of oppressed groups. Professional Use of Self Make effective use of supervision and seek consultation when needed. Consider how personal values and beliefs influence interactions Function as an effective team member in an agency setting and with interdisciplinary teams and be assertive in resolving conflicts. Link theory and practice and translate concepts into action. Promotion of Economic And Social Justice Apply strategies and skills that promote social and economic justice in advanced agency-based social work practice with vulnerable clients, guided by knowledge of the dynamics and consequences of social and economic injustice. Advocate effectively for the best interest of clients on both case and class advocacy levels. Populations-At-Risk Recognize the impact of racism, sexism, poverty, homophobia, and other forms of oppression on families and select interventions that maximize self-determination and empowerment. Identify both individual and institutional oppression and develop strategies to address these issues. Advanced Social Work Practice Skills Demonstrate assessment skills relevant to practice interventions. Demonstrate a comprehensive theoretical understanding of client problems and the relationship between the proposed interventions and this understanding. Engage in collaborative goal setting and therapeutic planning. Establish and sustain effective, helping/therapeutic relationships. 16

17 Demonstrate advanced therapeutic practice skills. Implement appropriate therapeutic models and articulate reasoning behind treatment plan and interventions. Engage in reflective practice as it relates to the reciprocal nature of the therapeutic relationship. Terminate effectively, ensuring appropriate follow-up and referral if necessary. Evaluate client satisfaction, practice effectiveness and delivery of service, including the limits of particular practice, models, interventions and contexts. 17

18 FIELD PRACTICE COURSE REQUIREMENTS STUDENT PLACEMENT AGREEMENT In most cases a formal, legal contract (Student Placement Agreement) is initiated by the Field Education Coordinator on behalf of the University of British Columbia and is signed by the approved agency. While having an established agreement is preferred practicum placements will be permitted to commence without a fully executed contract. STUDENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT All students (SOCW 505 and SOCW 506) are required to read and sign a Student Acknowledgement for Standard Domestic Student Placement form (Appendix II) provided by UBC s legal department. This form provides confirmation that the student understands and acknowledges some of the important conditions, policies and risks regarding their participation in practicum. STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCE UBC School of Social Work requires all practicum students to purchase student accident insurance. This coverage is of benefit to those UBC students performing course work in environments where the risk of injury is greater than in a classroom, e.g., laboratories, certain field work, or practicum. It provides a $50,000 maximum benefit for death or dismemberment, $100,000 for injury resulting in paralysis and a $10,000 excess medical coverage, e.g., ambulance, prescription drugs. Essentially, the basic BC Medical Plan or its equivalent from another province must be in place as the student plan provides only a measure of excess medical coverage. Physician/surgeon fees are not covered by the plan, as BC Medical, or its equivalent, will pay these costs for claims within Canada. The plan does not provide 24-hour coverage. It applies only during the involvement of the student in coursework. The cost of the insurance is $7/year/student. The commencement date for coverage will be the later of the required start date (first day of practicum) or the date on which the application is received by UBC Treasury. Retroactive coverage is not available therefore the School must have each student s $7 payment by September 30 of each year. Students must pay for the accident insurance through our secure online system at: MEDICAL COVERAGE All students registered at UBC should have basic BC Medical Plan coverage or the equivalent from another province. UBC students performing course work in environments where the risk of injury is 18

19 greater than that in a classroom (e.g., labs, certain field work, and practicum) are advised to purchase additional extended medical insurance. The MSW program, therefore, recommends students placed at the Ministry for Children and Family Development (MCFD), hospitals, distance placements, or others with increased risk, purchase extended medical coverage. TRANSPORTATION All students are required to provide their own means of transportation to and from their assigned placements. UBC does not provide any form of insurance for private vehicles, nor does UBC insure any personal items that may be damaged or stolen while located in private vehicles. If the student is using a private vehicle for practicum purposes it is the student s responsibility to ensure that they have and maintain the appropriate class of insurance and appropriate level of liability coverage. Please consider that insurance agencies are currently recommending liability coverage in the amount of 2-3 million dollars for all private vehicles. If the student will be consistently transporting multiple individuals in a private vehicle they may wish to increase their insurance above this amount. An insurance agent should be consulted by the student if there are any questions. PSSG CRIMINAL RECORD CHECKS As part of the admissions process, all students must complete and sign the Consent to a Criminal Record Check using the Ministry for Public Safety and Solicitor General (PSSG) form provided by the School. Instructions for completing the form properly are outlined on the School s website on the Criminal Record Check Requirement webpage. Once the application has been received and reviewed by PSSG, they will send notification of one of the following to the School 1) No Relevant or Specified Offence is Found Clearance Issued or 2)A Relevant or Specified Offence is Found Adjudication Process. If the criminal record check reveals a relevant and/or specified offence as applicable, a notice of adjudication letter is sent to the organization. For a full description of the adjudication process go to: The School will keep a record of the notification on file for each student while attending the program. The act requires that if a student who works with children or vulnerable adults is charged with or convicted of a relevant or specified offence as applicable subsequent to a criminal record check, the student must promptly report the charge or conviction to the organization, and submit a new, signed Consent for Criminal Record Check form. 19

20 RCMP CRIMINAL RECORD SEARCHES In some cases agencies also require students to go through an RCMP criminal record search. It is the responsibility of the student to fulfil this requirement. The procedure usually is as follows: 1. The student obtains and completes Consent for Criminal Record Search form from the most convenient RCMP detachment office. 2. The student presents in person the completed form, along with 2 pieces of proper identification (including 1 piece of government issued photo identification) to the front counter representative of the detachment. The student should also advise the front counter representative that she/he is a UBC student and that the search is required for course work purposes. This may qualify the applicant for a student rate. 3. The student pays for carrying out the search, unless indicated otherwise by her/his practicum agency. 4. The search is usually processed in 3-10 working days, although it may take up to 3 weeks. TIME REQUIREMENTS AND PRE/CO-REQUISITES Students complete 450 hours of practicum in SOCW 506 and 450 hours of practicum in SOCW 505. All students record their practicum hours on an electronic timesheet provided to the student through the Intern Placement Tracking (IPT) online system. Field Instructors verify student s completed practicum hours on a weekly basis. All MSW practicum students are encouraged to carefully plan the timing and length of their practica, noting that completing practicum at a slower pace may delay program completion and graduation. For SOCW 505 normally the student completes the required practicum hours in a full time format, after completion of all courses, or with only one 3-credit course remaining prior to completion of all MSW coursework. In exceptional circumstances a student may request a practicum placement that runs concurrently with their coursework through writing to the Field Education Coordinator. Practicum must be completed a minimum of 2-days per week, seven hours per day (not including a lunch break). Oneday per week practicums are not permitted under any circumstances. Practicums can be started at the beginning of the new term at three points per year: September, January or May. An approved practicum proposal is required prior to a practicum placement being confirmed. FOR SOCW 506 normally the student completes the required practicum hours in a 4-day (28 hour) per week format, Monday through Thursday of each week. Alternate schedules may be requested by students once per year by noting any the special scheduling requests under Accommodations and Special Requirements on the practicum selection form (due the first Friday in October). All practicums will be a minimum of 2-days (14 hours) per week (not including lunch breaks). Pre-requisite courses are SOCW 510 and SOCW 545. SOCW 555 and SOCW 509 are co-requisites. Practicums can be started in 20

21 either January or May, students must indicate on their practicum selection form if they intend to complete practicum from January April or May August. Practicums starting in January last until April 30 and students are expected to be available for practicum completion for all of January, February, March and April. INTEGRATIVE SEMINARS (SOCW 506 ONLY) All MSW students registered in SOCW 506 must be registered in SOCW 555 Integrative Seminar as a co-requisite. Integrative seminars are taught by School of Social Work faculty, the Field Education Coordinators, or other qualified individuals. The instructor for the integrative seminar may or may not also be the student s Faculty Liaison. The purpose of the integrative seminars is to provide students with a structured opportunity to integrate classroom learning and practical experience in the field. It is the intent of the faculty to provide a coordinated, integrated program for students that will enhance learning at all levels. Opportunities for discussion and linking of concepts and theories from each course to experiences in the field will occur throughout the MSW program. ABSENCES Students are expected to make appropriate and professional decisions regarding absences and notify their Field Instructor immediately, or leave a message if the Field Instructor is unavailable. If it is considered that the student has made unprofessional decisions in this respect, the Field Instructor and Faculty Liaison will meet to discuss the implications. The student is expected to make up any missed time. When the time lost in field placement due to illness exceeds that which can be reasonably recovered within the academic year, a medical deferment may be obtained upon approval of the Dean of the Faculty of Health & Social Development. A doctor s note or other documentation may be required. The Faculty Liaison, in consultation with the Field Education Coordinator, will then decide when the practicum can be completed, whether it can be completed by the student at the same agency, or at a new placement site, and how much time will be required to adequately evaluate the student's practice. STATUTORY HOLIDAYS AND OTHER BREAKS All students are strongly encouraged to take a break during the winter university break (Christmas) and regular statutory holidays, but to attend their regular practicum days through reading break in February in order to provide consistency of service to clients and agencies. The general expectation is that students will not take time off during reading break or spring break for personal or family vacations. If students wish to take time off at reading break, spring break, or some other time, they may do so if it is arranged with their Field Instructor and causes no complications or hardships for their clients or agency 21

22 work. It is suggested that students who wish to take time off make these arrangements prior to commencing their placement and get an agreement on this in writing from their Field Instructor, including a plan for how the missed hours will be made up. The Faculty Liaison may request a copy of this written agreement and/or plan. HOLY DAYS UBC recognizes the diversity of religious practices among its students. UBC will review requests from students to absent themselves from regularly scheduled classes, field placement hour and/or examinations on formal holy days of a recognized religion actively practiced by the requester. Consideration of such requests will be subject to operating constraints. Students will be required to make up missed hours or fulfil other such requirements as may be deemed necessary and appropriate in granting the request. Students shall inform their Field Instructor on the first day of the practicum of the holy days on which they wish to be absent during a semester, and shall discuss possible alternative arrangements with the Field Instructor. Field Instructors shall make reasonable efforts to accommodate such requests. In some instances, consultation with the Field Education Coordinator or Director may be advisable. FIELD EDUCATION ORIENTATIONS SOCW 506 students will be required to attend 2-3 practicum orientations in the fall term prior to the start of their practicum course. These orientations may be combined with orientations for undergraduate students. The orientation schedule will be announced in September. January 2 & 3, 2013 should also be reserved for on-campus practicum orientation for both Winter and Summer practicum students. The orientation plan for SOCW 505 students is dependent upon the number of students registered in practicum each term. Students will be informed of the orientation plan and schedule with as much advanced notice as possible. Questions regarding orientation to SOCW 505 should be directed to the Field Education Office. FIELD PLACEMENT LEARNING PLAN (LEARNING GOALS) Students work with their Field Instructor and Faculty Liaison to design a learning plan that builds on their current level of mastery. By the end of the third (3 rd ) week in the placement, the student and the Field Instructor should have identified appropriate, specific learning assignments and have completed the learning plan for review by the Faculty Liaison. This learning plan, which is updated and revised as needed, becomes the guide for the practicum experience. The student is evaluated on evidence which demonstrates that progress toward the goals in this plan has been successfully made. 22

23 Students in SOCW 506 complete the competency-based learning plan and evaluation form available on the IPT system. Students in SOCW 505 develop an individualized set of advanced learning goals. The School of Social Work recognizes that by the time the student reaches SOCW 505 the student is often looking to develop a unique and specialized skill and knowledge base. Each student and practicum setting is unique. To this end we provide greater flexibility around practicum goal setting at the SOCW 505 level. Typically however students choose to have three to four integrated goals for the practicum. Goals should be developed keeping in mind the learning objectives of SOCW 505 as outlined in this manual. FORMAT FOR SOCW 505 LEARNING GOALS Most students find it helpful to use the following format for their goals: 1. State overarching goal: Provide a succinct statement outlining what you are aiming to achieve 2. Strategies: Provide a bullet point list that describes how you will go about achieving your goal. Identify particular learning opportunities (i.e. workshops), relationships (i.e. a dialogue with a clinical specialist), or methods (i.e. literature review, a practice paper, etc.) that you will use? 3. Evidence: Provide a bullet point listing of the tangible evidence that can be provided to UBC once you complete your goal. Describe the outcome or what will be accomplished and how you will know that your goals have been achieved. Examples of evidence: record of client contact (protecting confidentiality), sample case note or summary with identifiers removed (with permission of the agency), written feedback from a presentation you give, copy of a literature review, a completed power point presentation or weekly written summaries of learning/discoveries. GOAL DEVELOPMENT PROCESS FOR SOCW 505 LEARNING GOALS The process of developing learning goals for a SOCW 505 practicum is iterative and should actively involve both the Field Instructor and the Faculty Liaison, along with the student. The student should create an initial draft of their learning goals and then present it to their Field Instructor who may offer suggestions for refinement or revision of the document. Once an agreeable draft has been developed, it should be submitted to the Faculty Liaison via by the student. 23

24 Once the student submits the first draft of the learning goals the next step is to set a meeting time for the initial contact with the Faculty Liaison. During this meeting the draft goals may be workshopped in order for the Faculty Liaison to provide the student with hands-on support in developing a strong set of goals. After the visit the student will have the opportunity to re-work and re-submit their learning goals. It is not uncommon for a student to work through 2-4 drafts of their learning goals prior to receiving final approval on their goals from the Faculty Liaison. FIELD PLACEMENT LEARNING CONTRACT SOCW 505 All students in SOCW 505 must complete and sign a Field Placement Learning Contract (Appendix I) within the first three weeks of placement. This contract outlines the details of the field education placement for the Field Instructor, the student, and Faculty Liaison. A copy of the completed form, signed by the Faculty Liaison and Field Instructor, must be submitted to the Field Education Coordinator. FACULTY LIAISON VISITS & CONTACT Faculty liaisons are responsible for a minimum of two points of contact and one on-site visit to each of their local (Okanagan Valley) practicum students and his/her Field Instructor, and at least three points of contact for their distance students and Field Instructors. Contact should be personal and can be completed over the telephone or via Skype or similar technology. For SOCW 506 students and Field Instructors initial contact will be made by telephone within the first two weeks of the start of practicum, as well as at final evaluation time, and more frequently as necessary. Local students will receive an on-site visit at mid-term evaluation and more frequently as necessary. Distance students will receive telephone or Skype contact at mid-term evaluation. For local SOCW 505 students and Field Instructors an initial on-site visit will occur within the first three weeks of the start of the practicum. Typically, a second on-site visit occurs at the final evaluation; more frequently as necessary. At mid-term evaluation contact is typically made via telephone or Skype. See Appendix III for Guidelines for Faculty Liaison Visits. 24

25 STANDARD OF CARE EXPECTED BY STUDENTS Social work students are not held to the standard of care of fully qualified professionals, but rather that of a reasonable and educated social work student. Students are expected to be competent for their position and have greater skills than lay people. They are expected to know their own limits and, when appropriate, to refer the case to or seek assistance from the Field Instructor or other qualified staff. CONDUCTING RESEARCH IN PRACTICUM Students are advised not to engage in formal research activities (i.e., activities that could result in publication of results) during practicum placements unless an ethics approval has been received from an appropriate research ethics committee. Questions or inquiries should be directed to the Faculty Liaison and/or the Field Education Coordinator. ACADEMIC ACCOMMODATION (FOR STUDENT WITH DISABILITIES) It is the responsibility of the student to request academic accommodation in a timely manner. Students with a disability who may require academic accommodation and have not registered with the Disability Resource Centre should contact that office as soon as possible. Students seeking accommodation must notify the Field Education Coordinator, Field Instructor and Faculty Liaison no later than 5 business days after the commencement of a practicum course. Notification prior to the start of practicum is recommended. In the practicum, academic accommodation is a collaborative process characterized by discussion with the student, Field Instructor and Faculty Liaison. The Disability Resource Centre will be involved in this process as necessary. PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS The School of Social Work expects students to adhere to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice set out by the BC College of Social Workers (2009). The establishment of clear and appropriate boundaries with clients is of critical importance. In addition, students must recognize that their role may place them in a position of power and responsibility with clients. It is the student s responsibility to prevent abuse of this power both during and after the provision of social work services. Relationships with clients must be professional in nature and conflicts of interest must be identified, managed and whenever possible, avoided. Sexual relationships with clients are prohibited as this represents an abuse of power within the context of a professional helping relationship. For further information on sexual misconduct please see principle #8 in the BC College of Social Workers Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice (2009). STUDENT CONCERNS 25

26 Student concerns that cannot be discussed with the Field Instructor should be directed to the Faculty Liaison as soon as possible. If the concern cannot be mediated by the Faculty Liaison, the student should contact the Field Education Coordinator for additional support or assistance. 26

27 FIELD PLACEMENT PROCESS The responsibility for the administration, management and evaluation of the MSW field education program is carried by the Field Education Coordinator working in conjunction with School of Social Work staff and faculty members. SELECTION OF AGENCIES AND FIELD INSTRUCTORS FOR PLACEMENTS Through a placement process (see section on Assignment of Students to Field Placements), students are placed in an appropriate social work field practice setting under the direct supervision of an approved Field Instructor. Field placements are normally located within the UBC (Okanagan Campus) catchment area, but other provincial and national arrangements can sometimes be developed in consultation with the Field Education Coordinator. International field placements will not be approved, including placement with agencies in the United States. Approved placement agencies are those which meet the learning needs of the student and conform to national accreditation standards for social work field education. When an agency has indicated an interest in supervising a student in a field placement, the Field Education Coordinator ensures that the agency can provide both the range and depth of experience to provide a quality learning environment for the MSW student. AGENCY CRITERIA The following criteria are used as a guideline to assess the appropriateness of an agency as a placement setting: 1. The agency's philosophy of service is compatible with the philosophy, values and ethics of the social work profession. 2. The field setting shall accept students in field practicum without regard to age, race, class, culture, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation. 3. The agency can clearly articulate its programs and methods. 4. The agency's programs and services offer students a range of learning opportunities appropriate to the goals of the MSW program. 5. The agency can provide students with a Field Instructor who holds a MSW degree and who has two or more years post-msw professional practice experience. 6. The agency demonstrates support for professional social work education and for the objectives and educational focus of the field instruction course. 27

28 7. The agency provides time for the Field Instructor to fulfill her/his role and responsibilities as Field Instructor, and to attend field instruction sessions and workshops whenever possible. 8. The agency shall hold central the learning goals of the student. FIELD INSTRUCTOR CRITERIA Once an agency has demonstrated that it meets these criteria, and has been approved, it will be necessary to identify the designated Field Instructor. Field instruction is a process that involves the Field Instructor and the student analyzing and integrating practice skills with the knowledge and value base of the profession. The goal is to develop the student's competence in the practice of advanced social work. The following criteria are presented as Field Instructor selection guidelines: 1) The Field Instructor should be a qualified social worker with an MSW degree and at least two years of professional social work practice experience. If this is not possible, a related graduate degree and extensive experience may be acceptable. In such cases the School of Social Work will then take increased responsibility for supporting the agency in their supervision of the student. 2) The Field Instructor will demonstrate the following attributes: a) knowledge of the practicum agency; b) interest in supervision and field instruction, and commitment of time; and c) a willingness to accept and apply the educational objectives of the MSW program curriculum. 3) The Field Instructor will be able to provide a minimum 1.5 hours weekly of formal individual supervision time, to provide the student with ongoing feedback about her/his progress towards achieving the established learning objectives. 4) The Field Instructor will attend meetings and workshops provided by the School of Social Work as regularly as possible. New Field Instructors are normally expected to complete the Field Instructor Training Course. Experienced Field Instructors are also encouraged to attend the course. Please refer to section on Roles and Responsibilities, for further details on the Field Instructor s duties. FIELD INSTRUCTORS FROM OUTSIDE OF THE AGENCY In exceptional circumstances a student may be granted approval to have a Field Instructor who does not work with the placement agency. In such cases, the Field Instructor must hold a Master of Social Work degree and meet all of the criteria outlined above. The Field Instructor must agree to volunteer this service to the student free of any remuneration. The practicum agency must also state an agreement to the proposed Field Instructor and practicum arrangements. 28