The contribution of field education towards professional capability

Abstract

Using qualitative data from recent research conducted in Aotearoa New Zealand (ANZ) this chapter reports on the centrality of field education for developing social work professional capability and readiness to practice among students and newly qualified social workers (NQSW). Internationally, the social work education sector is mindful of ensuring graduates are well equipped to enter the employment sector with pathways for professional accountability and qualification progression. Professional capability frameworks (PCF) have been developed in a range of jurisdictions to enunciate expectations for students, NQSWs and advanced practitioners. Findings from this research attest to the crucial role of field education in the development of professional capabilities yet illustrate there is significant variability in the quality of placement offerings, learning opportunities accessed and the types of support and supervision experienced by students. Not all graduates felt prepared for the transition from student to worker. The quality of the placement learning experienced during training had significant bearing on student and NQSW sense of confidence and readiness to practice and could in some instances impact on life long career choices.