Using Groups to Advance Social Work Practice–Based Research

Abstract

A discussion about the importance of research for social work practitioners and the nature of academic–practitioner partnerships set the scene in this article for a discussion about an innovative academic–practitioner partnership. This partnership, aimed at strengthening research mindedness and research activity in social service settings, has been fuelled by a belief in the power of groups to achieve what individuals cannot. The authors reflect on the range of inputs and synergistic group processes that allowed for a series of outcomes that would not have been possible within an individualized initiative. In conclusion, lessons learned from the use of groups to advance practice-based research are outlined.

KEYWORDS:

• academic–practice partnerships
• structured group approach
• practice-based research

The authors want to acknowledge the input of the practice teams and the contribution of Deborah Yates, Liz Beddoe, Phil Harington and Glenda Light to the project on which this article is based. The project was funded by the New Zealand Families Commission, Ministry of Social Development and the ASB Trusts in partnership with Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers.