4. Research

Competency 4: Engage in Practice-Informed Research and Research-Informed Practice

Social Workers understand quantitative and qualitative research methods and their respective roles in advancing a science of social work and in evaluating their practice. Social workers know the principles of logic, scientific inquiry, and culturally informed and ethical approaches to building knowledge. Social workers understand that evidence that informs practice derives from multi-disciplinary sources and multiple ways of knowing. They also understand the processes for translating research findings into effective practice. Social workers:

2.1 use practice experience and theory to inform scientific inquiry and research;

2.2 apply critical thinking to engage in analysis of quantitative and qualitative research methods and research findings; and

2.3 use and translate research evidence to inform and improve practice, policy, and service delivery.

Reflection

The meaning of this competence is to dedicate yourself to seeking knowledge and understanding about clients, continuities, and the social environment. To me, engaging in practice-informed research in knowing how to properly conduct and collect research from personal experience and credible sources. Research-informed practice is a reminder that the best social workers keep themselves informed about current research findings, and understand that better practice comes from a curiosity for knowledge.

Competency 4: Evidence of Practice

While attending Southern Adventist University and studying my BSW, I engaged in a variety of activities that helped me to develop and master this competency.

School Work: 

For one of my core social work classes, Human Behavior and the Social Environment, I wrote a Human Behavior Literature Review where I reviewed studies and literature pieces on how father-daughter relationships could potentially impact sexuality in adolescence. Within this assignment, I learned how to properly analyze research findings, and how to use this to advance my knowledge on this topic. I chose this assignment as one of my evidences because I believe it shows my ability to engage with research and apply findings.

As a part of my Research Methods class, my group wrote a research paper where we studied the impact treatment site has on the emotional well-being and physical recovery among pediatric cancer patients. This assignment helped me to learn the fundamentals of conducting a research study, and how to translate this evidence for practical use in field. 

Field: 

As an intern at Mending Arrow Ranch, I created a database consisting of data from current and waitlist clients Student Stats Research (Spring 2021) – Current Students. After collecting data on a total of 40 current clients and 32 waitlist clients, I calculated percentages including the number of students who had: gender, race, behavioral difficulties, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, etc. This information was used as evidences during grant writing, and will be used as future reference for any statistical needs.

Outside Evidence:

At the beginning of the new year, I commited to educating myself on mental health and beneficial self care habits to promote a healthy lifestyle. I have researched this topic by reading numerous articles, watching Ted Talks, and listening to many different podcasts. I created a Self Care Practices Resource List  for myself and other college students seeking knowledge about how to apply self-care to a busy college student lifestyle. My recent desire to invest in my mental health has twofold improved my self care and also sparked my passion for learning. Self care can be a hard habit to practice and develop. However, I am committed to continue to educate myself on this topic as well as develop my passion for learning.