Relational Learning in Social Work Education: Transformative Education for Teaching a Course on Loss, Grief and Death

Abstract

This article explores the relational learning model for teaching clinical social work practice. Evaluations of a course on loss, grief, and death illustrate that relational learning methods enhanced students' relational and communicative knowledge and skills, and contributed to a transformative learning process. Relational learning is a method of teaching that is consistent with the postmodern classroom and with the mission of contemporary social work practice.

Keywords:

• relational learning
• grief
• loss
• death
• practice education

Notes

With appreciation to the students whose passion for learning inspired this article.