January 2014
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82,759 Reads
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23 Citations
We believe the success of applying theory in practice is largely contingent on how students define social work theory, identify the role of theory in practice, and categorize benefits and challenges in applying theory to practice. It is on this premise that this article is presented. Two datasets were used to form the students' perspectives. The first dataset is a seven year compilation of 109 undergraduate student theory papers and the second is a pre-test/post-test online survey of graduate students in an advanced social work theory course. The work offers a context for educators in teaching and helping students to apply theory in their own practices. SOCIAL WORK THEORY AND APPLICATION TO PRACTICE: THE STUDENTS' PERSPECTIVES As a helping profession, the primary mission of social work is to help clients meet their needs and enhance their well-being. In order to effectively respond to clients' needs and demands, professional social workers are equipped with a wide range of knowledge. However, what constitute social work knowledge base remain a major concern and a controversial issue (Trevithick, 2008). A classic debate in social work is whether theories are necessary for practice. Thyer (1994) argues that it is a waste of time for social work educators to teach theory for practice because they do not do a good job of teaching theory. He espouses that most theories in social work are taught incorrectly, and are invalid, which may lead to ineffective methods (Thyer, 1994). In contrast, Simon (1994) insists that it is crucial for social work practitioners to learn theoretical knowledge because theory can serve as an anchoring frame and a conceptual screen for case assessment, causal explanation, intervention planning, and outcome evaluation. Although this kind of expert debate provides a vehicle for scholars or educators to thoroughly discuss the role of social work theory in practice, it does not offer an opportunity for the general consumers of the outcome to express their views, especially students who are required to learn and apply theory in practice.