Revisioning social work clinical education: recent developments in relation to evidence-based practice

Area of Science:

• Social Work
• Clinical Education
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Growing demands for accountability and malpractice liability are driving the adoption of evidence-based practice (EBP) in social work.
• Factors internal and external to the profession are contributing to the rise of EBP.
• Sophistication of clients necessitates more rigorous, evidence-informed approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the growing influence of EBP in social work.
• To explore the reasons behind the emergence of EBP.
• To review the positive features and potential drawbacks of EBP.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing literature and examines indices of EBP's influence.
• It analyzes the drivers for EBP adoption in social work.
• Case study of a social work school implementing an EBP curriculum is included.

Main Results:

• The EBP movement is significantly impacting social work education and practice.
• Key drivers include accountability, client sophistication, and liability concerns.
• A social work school's curriculum implementation offers insights into EBP integration.

Conclusions:

• Social work clinicians must be aware of EBP developments.
• EBP is poised to significantly shape the future of direct social work practice.
• Integrating EBP into clinical education is crucial for professional advancement.