The role of social work education is discussed in the context of broad societal conflict over multicultural education. Antithetical perspectives on three themes of the multiculturalism debate (visions of community, educational quality, social change) are examined. A more open debate within the profession is encouraged. (Author/MSE)

An ethnographic research method taught as a way of studying different cultural groups in a social work curriculum is described. Students learn to be sensitive observers of cultures by conducting ethnographic interviews and forming assessments within a culturally relevant framework. Faculty, fieldwork instructors, and students see improved…

This article suggests that gender differences in communication affect three areas in social work education (training students, faculty interactions, faculty-student interaction) and that it is helpful to view these communication differences as cross-cultural in nature. Suggestions for change in social work education are offered. (Author/MSE)

A study compared the values and personal orientation of beginning graduate students in social work (MSW) and business administration (MBA). The qualities on which MSW students outscored MBA counterparts all supported effective leadership of human service agencies. It is recommended that social work education focus more on training future managers.…

A required research course in a Master of Social Work curriculum attempted to offer experience in integrating research and practice through a student research project, in which students worked to improve their interviewing and relationship-building skills through student roleplaying and peer feedback. Evaluations of the project's effectiveness…

This article shows how a child abuse metaphor can be used to illustrate the range of cultural wounding that can result from oppression, devaluing, or stigmatizing minority group members. Students of social work can better appreciate feelings and behaviors of those oppressed when made aware of parallels between physical or psychological abuse and…

This article proposes a model of distance education for schools of social work. The model involves use of videotapes, an on-site discussion leader/field instructor, computers, and direct observation by field instructors. Possible problems are addressed as are evaluation concerns and policy issues. (DB)

This article presents an integrative skills assessment approach for teaching students of social work to perform assessments. The approach is based on technical eclecticism and combines three practice models: (1) psychosocial, (2) cognitive-behavioral, and (3) systems. Specific teaching strategies as well as shortcomings of this approach are…

A national survey of 216 human services education programs in community colleges investigated trends in program number, curriculum design, standard-setting, student composition and career paths, faculty affiliation, and graduates in further education and at work. Results indicate a period of renewed program growth and a need for involvement of the…

A study of 230 graduate social work students investigated prevalence of various interests, preferred professional activities, and self-identifications associated with social work identity. Four distinct interest subgroups emerged: policy and research; private and direct practice with voluntary clients; traditional social work; and…

This article describes the content and design of a model program to prepare social work students to work effectively with severely mentally disturbed children and adolescents. Task analysis of skill areas (assessment, intervention, case management, and critical thinking) informed development of the suggested curriculum. The training program design…

A discussion of ethical responsibility, professional boundaries, and legal liability in social work field experience programs looks at specific issues in the complex network of dyadic relationships between the student, client, field instructor, and field liaison. Specific situations are used to illustrate the issues. (MSE)

The first national survey to focus specifically on publication productivity of African-American social work faculty is reported. Results (respondents, n=300) reveal productivity is associated more with individual than structural factors, a few faculty are producing most of the publications, and this subgroup is slightly less productive than the…

A national survey of undergraduate and graduate social work programs (respondents, n=194) investigated incorporation of gender-sensitive materials in the curricula. Results show some women's issues are covered and others are not commonly addressed. No schools required and few offered courses exclusively on women's issues. Feminist faculty…

Jewish history and the dynamics of anti-Semitism should be incorporated into social work curricula, and students should explore their own ethnic identities and religious backgrounds. This self-exploration enables them to be open to new information and aware of misinformation. Role playing can help students practice responses to incidents of bias.…