Bridging the Gap Between Classroom and Practicum

Summary

In the wake of sweeping demographic change, health care services are in an ever-increasing state of flux, especially in the areas of technology, managed care, and availability to services. Social work literature indicates that it is incumbent upon social work educators to ensure that curriculum be particularly relevant to the fields of practice students will encounter. For this research report, thirteen second-year MSW students were interviewed at the beginning, mid point, and end of their field placements in a medical setting as to the appropriateness of their preparation for medical social work with an aged population. Additionally, a one-year follow-up was conducted with each student.

Key Words:

• MSW education
• gerontological social work
• medical social work
• field placement