Teaching Note—Mapping the Science of Social Work Debate: An Exercise in Doctoral Student Education

ABSTRACT

A wide range of opinions exist regarding the science of social work, yielding a challenging discourse to navigate in its entirety. Yet understanding the diverse perspectives and contributions is critical for doctoral students of social work. This teaching note describes the use of concept mapping as a pedagogical method employed by a class of doctoral students and their instructor to articulate the various points of view expressed in the recent literature. We begin with a brief overview of concept mapping, followed by a description of our four-stage methodology. This teaching note offers a brief conclusion that remarks on the value of the exercise and its potential in social work education.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jeanelle S. Sears

Jeanelle S. Sears,

Alton Nathan Verbist

Alton Nathan Verbist,

Jordan Wilfong

Jordan Wilfong,

Tammi A. Thomas

Tammi A. Thomas,

Shannon Mount

Shannon Mount, and

Ramzi Sabree

Ramzi Sabree are Doctoral Students at the Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville.

Michiel Adriaan van Zyl

Michiel Adriaan van Zyl was formerly Associate Dean for Research at the Kent School of Social Work and now serves as Professor and Director at the University of South Florida School of Social Work.