Solidarity in Time of a Pandemic: A Qualitative Study of Student Experiences of Power-Sharing and Collaboration During COVID-19

ABSTRACT

Using an anti-oppressive lens, this Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program intentionally introduced power sharing between students and faculty during the first semester of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study qualitatively examined the students’ response to this interpersonal intervention and found: (1) This experience helped all participants appreciate each person’s unique contribution, which was helpful in building their confidence in themselves and each other as developing social work professionals, (2) Students experienced a greater sense of closeness with all members of the group, and (3) Working together as equals helped students feel supported as they faced difficulties in their personal lives. Anti-oppressive pedagogical strategies focusing on the nature of the relationship may provide high levels of support and empowerment for students.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Liza Barros-Lane

Dr. Liza Barros-Lane is an assistant professor at the University of Houston-Downtown. Dr. Dana S. Smith is an associate professor and director of field education for the BSW program at the University of Houston-Downtown. Dr. Dawn McCarty is a professor and BSW program director at the University of Houston-Downtown. Sandra Perez, LMSW, is a therapist at UT Health Houston Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Leslie Sirrianni, LCSW-S, is the training director at the Health Behavior Research and Training Institute, Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas-Austin.