Using principles of practice-based research to teach evidence-based practice in social work

Area of Science:

• Social Work Education
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Research Translation

Background:

• Evidence-based practice (EBP) adoption in social work is slow despite growing attention.
• A significant barrier is the perceived distance between research and practice communities.
• Confusion regarding the definition and scope of EBP also hinders implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the slow uptake of EBP in social work.
• To introduce practice-based research as a framework to address barriers to EBP.
• To highlight the role of social work education in catalyzing EBP.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of EBP and its challenges in social work.
• Introduction of practice-based research as a bridging framework.
• Explication of a five-step EBP process with integrated practice-based research considerations.

Main Results:

• Identified confusion and the research-practice gap as key impediments to EBP.
• Proposed practice-based research as a viable model to integrate research and practice.
• Outlined pedagogical strategies for social work education to foster EBP.

Conclusions:

• Social work education is crucial for promoting EBP.
• Practice-based research offers a practical framework to enhance EBP.
• Addressing definitional clarity and bridging the research-practice divide are essential for widespread EBP adoption.