Research Education for Clinical Social Workers: An Intermediate Approach

Abstract

This article proposes a redefinition of the role of the clinical social worker as researcher, and describes a sequence of courses and practicum-related assignments designed to prepare students for this role. The course sequence is designated as an intermediate approach, since a major reorganization of the prevailing curriculum structure and content would be required to prepare social work students specializing in clinical practice as researchers in a way that would integrate fully the researcher aspect of their role with other aspects of their professional role.