A Brief Discussion on Fieldwork in Social Work
As the social work curriculum is based on both theory and practice, the provision of sound theory is critical as is fieldwork experience. It is critically important for social work students to acquire, in a classroom environment, practice principles, values and ethics and the scientific basis for practice. Equally important is the need to apply the theoretical content covered in the classroom, to real life situations as part of a student‟s preparation to become a professional social worker. It takes more than academic fitness, but also evidence-based knowledge, field- tested skills and a wealth of hands-on-experience to become a fully backed social worker (Dhemba, 2012). It is an instrument of socialization since it prepares the student for a future role as a social work practitioner. It is a dynamic course that challenges students to apply social work practice knowledge, skills, and values within an organizational and community context. A meaningful fieldwork placement is one that enhances the students understanding of the social work profession and the nature of the problems the profession addresses itself to (Kaseke,1986; Dhemba, 2012). Concurrent and Block placement are generally called types which are operated under standard, extended and reduced model. The standards, ethics and responsibilities of Fieldwork in Social Work are very vivid to maintain which are permitted by its philosophy. The objectives of it be achieved only when the practitioner can understand the importance of it and full-fill the every query of Fieldwork.