INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this manual is to provide a common ground of information for the field instructor and the student as they begin the Field Practicum. The Field Practicum is the culmination of the student's four years of study; it is an opportunity to integrate previous learning as well as a time to expand the student's awareness of the variety and dimensions of social work practice. Above all, it provides the student with the opportunity to synthesize knowledge, professional values, and skills into a beginning level of competence as a professional social worker engaged in generalist practice.

The field instructor and the student are partners in this undertaking, as are the agency and the college. Dana College is deeply appreciative of the commitment of the many social agencies and social work practitioners which support its social work program. The time given to field instruction by agencies and field instructors is invaluable to the student, to the college, to future clients, and to the profession of social work. Together we are committed to educating capable, caring social workers who will carry forward our common goals of providing service as well as becoming catalysts for social change.

Dana College provides this manual as a basis for our work together. It contains relevant information on the organization of the field practicum, school policies and procedures, and samples of forms used in the field practicum. It is expected that this material will continue to change as field instructors and students offer feedback on ways in which the teaching/learning process may be supported, both in the classroom and in the field agency.

The Dana College Social Work Program Statement of Nondiscrimination

The Dana College Social Work Program operates according to the principle of inclusivity and works to provide a learning context in which understanding and respect for diversity are practiced. The program does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, national origin, race, religion, or sexual or political orientation.