Training in prevention: an educational model for social work students

Graduate schools of social work have made infrequent use of public health settings as a locus for practice education and a particular resource for learning in prevention. This report is on a project aimed at the development of an educational model in preventive work with families and children, using a student unit in fieldwork in a county health department. The 3-year project emphasizes early intervention with concern for developmental and life cycle tasks of families. Ongoing evaluation of process indicates clearer identification of populations "at risk" and changes in student appreciation of collaborative roles with other disciplines in patient care, as well as specific learning tasks and roles associated with screening, case finding, referral, and treatment.