Screening Mechanisms in BSW Programs

Abstract

At one time or another, all social work faculty encounter a student who is not well suited for professional social work practice. However, finding ways to effectively screen students to ensure their suitability for a career in social work seems a formidable task for educators. This article reports the findings of a study on the current screening practices used by bachelor of social work programs for judging students' fitness for entry into the major and the field practicum. The findings raise several issues about the appropriateness of screening practices and policies currently in place at the bachelor's level; recommendations for addressing these issues are included.