PRACTICE STANDARDS TABLE Learning Outcomes and Descriptive Indicators based on AASW Practice Standards, 2013 Practice Standard Learning Outcome Descriptive Indicators 1 st placement 1: Values and Ethics demonstrate social work values, uphold their ethical responsibilities and act appropriately when faced with ethical problems, issues and dilemmas. 1.1: Practice in accordance with the Code of Ethics (2010), and identify ethical dilemmas and issues arising in Demonstrates an awareness of the relevance of the AASW Code of Ethics within the placement setting (e.g. promotion of social justice and commitment to the dignity, value and uniqueness of individuals, social units, communities and cultures). Identifies and critically reflects on ethical issues in accordance with the ethical responsibilities of the Code of Ethics. Seeks out supervision with supervisor/s when faced with an ethical dilemma. Critically reflects on and examines personal and professional ethics and values that may influence Identifies in discussion with supervisor/s the impact of social systems and structures that perpetuate inequality and injustice. Maintains an open and respectful perspective towards the values, views and opinions of others and is able to seek to incorporate notions of individual rights and needs, and collective responsibilities. 2:Professionalism act with integrity, are accountable and reliable, and demonstrate a commitment to their learning in placement. 2.1: Be accountable and behave in a professional manner, and represent the social work profession with integrity and professionalism. Demonstrates responsibility, accountability, reliability and initiative. Maintains professional/personal boundaries. Seeks support and information or refers people when professional capabilities are exceeded. Demonstrates an understanding of social work as a profession and how it differs from other professions. Articulates the values, processes and outcomes of social work and how they apply in the context of the placement. Acknowledges that social work positions carry power, and uses authority responsibly, so that social marginalization and inequality are not perpetuated. Recognizes and declares conflicts of interest when they arise. Works with increased autonomy. Understands the importance of maintaining personal well-being and managing the emotional impact of the work. Page 1 of 5
3: Culturally responsive & inclusive have a sound understanding and knowledge of cultural diversity in order to work in a culturally inclusive way. 4. Knowledge for practice demonstrate knowledge for practice, and skills of enquiry and curiosity where new knowledge is required. Page 2 of 5 2.2: Actively participate in learning. 3.1 Work respectfully and inclusively with cultural difference and diversity. 3.2 Respect, strive to understand, and promote the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their cultures. 4.1 Understand the impact of systemic influences on Actively seeks opportunities for feedback from supervisor/s, colleagues and peers. Contributes to the learning of others through participating in seminars and other learning opportunities with peers. Demonstrates knowledge of diversity between and within different cultures including ethnicity, disability, economic status, age, sexuality, gender and transgender, faiths and beliefs. Critically reflects on personal values, cultures and beliefs and how these impact on interactions with people, colleagues and community members. Seeks out knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders culture, protocols and practices in a local context. Demonstrates understanding and awareness of organisational policies and their impact on people, in their placement context. Demonstrates understanding of relevant legislation governing practice and the legal frameworks which inform and mandate Critically analyses the impact of social and organizational policies on Demonstrates the ability to engage in critical reflective practice in supervision and in practice, including examination of personal and professional values that influence Identifies learning needs and seeks out opportunities to address these needs through training, consultation, supervision and support. Modifies practice in order to work effectively and inclusively with people who have different and diverse cultural identities, values, affiliations, beliefs and customs. Acknowledges and understands the historical and continuing disadvantage and oppression of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the impact this has on Critically reflects on the impact of public debate and the economic, cultural and political environment, on policy and program development and service provision. Identifies aspects of policy that are inappropriate, inconsistent or inadequate.
Identifies and analyses the values and ethical principles that underpin policies 4.2 Understand and discuss relevant social work and other theories and concepts.. Identifies and describes the social work model or approach used in their practice, and its theoretical and conceptual underpinnings. Identifies other areas of learning that assist practice in this context, such as human development, child welfare, mental health or social policy Articulates and uses knowledge from other relevant subjects such as law, sociology, anthropology, politics, history, social theory, psychology, humanities and philosophy. Develops and articulates a personal practice framework that draws on contemporary theory, knowledge, methods, skills and professional values. 4.3 Understand the role of research and evaluation in obtaining and generating new knowledge for Proactively seeks out new knowledge relevant to practice context, including searching & reading academic literature. Analyses how data collection systems are used by the agency and its funding body, in program development & evaluation Within the placement context demonstrates understanding of relevant principles & methodological considerations when conducting research activities. Distinguishes between various sources of knowledge such as practice evidence & experiences, personal & community knowledge &experience, knowledge of organisations & policies, &legal ðical knowledge to help inform 5. Applying knowledge to practice demonstrate skills required to implement knowledge in 5.1 Applies social work knowledge to undertake effective assessment and interventions, to respond to meeting the needs of individuals, groups and communities. Undertake an effective and holistic assessment by gathering relevant information appropriate to the person/organisation and practice context. Supports people to decide what service/s they want to assist in meeting needs, taking into account any limitations to their capability, voluntary/involuntary status and the choices available. Analyses the information gleaned from the assessment, along with knowledge and theory in specific practice areas to inform When appropriate, develops a service plan that outlines what is being offered, objectives/goals and planned outcomes, and evaluates and reviews the plan routinely. Page 3 of 5
Works with other agencies, teams and across jurisdictions at a practice and policy level. 5.2 Uses a range of specific social work methods &techniques, and applies critical reflective thinking to Selects appropriate method of practice relevant to practical context to address and meet the needs, goals and preferences of people. Critically reflects on and evaluates practice with a particular focus on principles of self-determination, empowerment, inclusion, equality, human rights and social justice. Critically reflects on the role of the social worker paying particular attention to power imbalances, professional boundaries, use of authority in statutory positions and work with people who are using services involuntarily. Critically reflects on the broader organisational, societal and political context of 6. Communication & interpersonal skills demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills. 6.1 Effectively communicate with a diverse range of people. Uses appropriate ( as required in the context) verbal and non-verbal communication skills with individuals, community members, colleagues, and relevant others. Builds rapport with people, and shows empathy, genuineness, warmth, and integrity in all interactions. Engages with, and includes people in decision making processes that affect them, as far as possible, including those using services involuntarily. Demonstrates skill in the use of information technology and in providing reports and/or services in an online environment. Effectively communicates the details and nature of the service offered to people. 6.2 Effectively work with others; in teams and with student colleagues in groups. Relates to social work and other colleagues with respect, integrity and courtesy. Contributes discipline specific social work values, principles and practice to team activities. Page 4 of 5
7. Information and record sharing. use ethical principles, and are accurate and professional, as they write reports, record data and collect and share information. 7.1 Record and maintain information appropriately. Informs people of social work records and the purpose for which a record is made. Informs people of who will/may have access to their records and why. Advises people of how to access their records. Writes information in an accurate, objective and contemporaneous manner, acknowledging the basis of any subjective opinions. Demonstrates skill in writing using diverse mediums; including formal reports, data collection for the agency and information technology as required. Demonstrates awareness of how information is stored in accordance with ethical principles including confidentiality, informed consent and accountability. Understands relevant legislation with respect to record keeping in area of 8. Professional development and supervision Social workers demonstrate commitment to ongoing learning through continuing professional development and supervision. (See AASW Practice Standards, 2013: Professional development and supervision, 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3, p 17). 8.1 Actively engage in supervision and ongoing professional development. Actively participate in professional supervision. Engage in continuing professional development. Contribute to education and professional development of others where appropriate. Page 5 of 5