Social Work Education and Children

Abstract

It is well documented that social work graduates feel unprepared for work with vulnerable children, especially those involved with child protection systems. Initiatives of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) emphasise the importance of including a focus on children within the Australian social work curricula. This article considered whether social work education was preparing graduates to respond more effectively to children by examining current online evidence of the courses provided in Australian social work programs in 2011. It builds on previous research conducted by the Australian Centre for Child Protection. Some implications for practice, research, and the future education of social work graduates are discussed.

Keywords:

• Child Protection
• Child and Family Welfare
• Children, Social Work Education

Notes

¹In 2009, this multidisciplinary project won the “Best Collaborative/Interdisciplinary Research Project Award” at the University of South Australia.

² http://www.gooduniguide.com.au/course/search

³ http://www.aasw.asn.au/whatwedo/social-work-education/social-work-education