All practice behaviors articles

Should End-Measures for Every Competency and Practice Behavior Come from Field Practicum Evaluation?

Published April 2014

by Dianna Cooper-Bolinskey, MSW
Indiana State University

Angela M. Napier, PhD
Indiana State University
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Abstract: Field education is recognized as the signature pedagogy in social work education. In this article, we acknowledge the inherent support for using the competencies and practice behaviors set forth by the 2008 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) for evaluating student performance as well as social work curriculum. However, we propose challenges to adopting field education ratings from field instructors as one of two means for evaluating the social work curriculum at both the individual and programmatic levels. With the 2015 EPAS currently in draft stages toward adoption in June 2015, this article underscores points of consideration.

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Competency Level versus Level of Competency: The Field Evaluation Dilemma

Published October 2013

by Robin L. Ringstad, PhD
California State University, Stanislaus
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Abstract: This study examines the use of a competency-based scoring rubric to measure students’ field practicum performance and competency development. Rubrics were used to complete mid-year and final evaluations for 56 MSW students in their foundation field practicum. Results indicate that students scored higher than expected on competency development measures, appearing to provide evidence of good overall program outcomes in terms of competency levels achieved by students. Results also appear to provide evidence of grade inflation by field instructors, however, calling into question whether students have actually gained adequate skills to engage in competent social work practice.

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