Problem-Based Learning in Social Work Education

Abstract

This article examines the applicability of Problem-Based Learning (“PBL”) to social work education. Borrowed from medical education, PBL requires students to take a more active role in their learning. Key components of PBL are delineated; a pilot study using PBL for preparing school social work practitioners for the 21st century is then discussed. The PBL model was implementedin two graduate level social work courses and was evaluated by the students for effectiveness in learning. The majority of the students agreed that the PBL model helped them in their learning about educational disabilities and cultural diversity, and agreed that it was a stimulating approach to learning about children and families.

Key Words:

• Problem-based learning
• social work education
• school social work
• disabilities