Utilizing Experiential Learning to Deepen Understanding in an MSW Macro Practice Class: Impact on Learning and EPAS Competencies

ABSTRACT

Experiential learning in Master of Social Work (MSW) programs can be an instrumental pedagogical method of juxtaposing theoretical knowledge with tangible hands-on approaches, enhancing student experience through incorporating curriculum beyond classroom settings. This paper seeks to employ the use of educational theorist David Kolb’s Theory of Experiential Learning as the pedagogical framework to explore the impact of a community partnership with an upstate New York organ donation organization on master level social work students. Furthermore, this paper pursues an increased understanding of experiential learning and factors connecting social work theoretical concepts with the learning process in MSW programming. Student discussions voiced and illuminated a deeper understanding of macrocommunity concepts and demonstrated skills reflecting EPAS. Students’ responses to participation in the experiential learning activity were emotional, compelling, and profound. Common areas of understanding gained by students were a clear awareness of the need for social work advocacy, measures to address social justice, and increased education for organ donations.

KEYWORDS:

• Experiential learning
• macro social work
• community organizing
• family engagement
• community engagement
• organ donation
• organ procurement

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank Casey Lloyd, graduate assistant, for her assistance with preparing this paper.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.