Responding to Global Shifts: Meta-Practice as a Relevant Social Work Practice Paradigm

Abstract

In response to increasing global changes, this article proposes that social work education add meta-practice to traditional micro-, mezzo-, and macro-practice curriculum areas. Drawing on pertinent literature, the authors conceptualize meta-practice as a necessary paradigm shift for competent and relevant social work practice. Further, the authors offer an initial articulation of how meta-practice uniquely addresses interdependent global concerns, particularly in the framework of sustainability. The article provides an example of how this integrative practice dimension is implemented in a MSW curriculum and concludes with critical consideration of the Council on Social Work Education Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards competencies.

Keywords:

• meta-practice
• sustainability
• globalization
• social work curriculum