Competency 9: Evaluation

Social workers understand that evaluation is an important ongoing process that is used in advanced practice. Social workers engage in evaluation of evidence-based and best practices with diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. They recognize the importance of evaluating outcomes in an effort to advance policy and deliver effective interventions. Social workers understand different methods and models used that evaluate qualitative and quantitative data obtained. As an advanced social work practitioner, I will regularly evaluate the outcomes of my interactions with clients by utilizing empirical literature to identify theories of practice and analyzing outcomes of services provided. I will continue to apply my knowledge of human behavior and the social environment when evaluating the outcomes of services provided. I will utilize the outcomes from my evaluations to analyze and modify practice behaviors with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.

9.1 Select evidence-based evaluation strategies according to their efficacy with specific client systems

Course Evidence: In my Advanced Administrative Practice and Leadership class, my team and I developed the nonprofit organization RightWay Recovery to aid individuals in recovery for substance abuse issues. I researched evidence-based human resource evaluation strategies to create a human resource evaluation plan for the organization. Included are staff and volunteer evaluations. RightWay Recovery HR Evaluation Plan

Field Evidence: I utilized the Goal Attainment Scoring (GAS) tool to evaluate progress of students throughout their programs at Mending Arrow Ranch. The GAS tool allows advanced practitioners to translate obscure qualitative data into measurable, quantitative data. At the beginning of the semester, I assisted students in creating SMART goals that they wished to accomplish by the end of the semester. Once the semester was completed, I used the GAS tool for each student to evaluate whether he/she met his/her SMART goals as expected, less than expected, or more than expected. I then used the tool in the Dream Catchers program to compare the overall student progress in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. Dream Catcher GAS Scores

9.2 Evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of practice outcomes across systems

Course Evidence: In my Mental Health Emphasis class, I conducted a medication analysis to evaluate four medications that are commonly used in the treatment of schizophrenia (one typical and three atypical antipsychotics). My analysis included DSM-5 criteria for schizophrenia, research information on each medication, how each medication works on a neurocognitive level to treat schizophrenia, benefits and side effects of each medication, medication compliance issues, and recommendations/strategies social workers can use to overcome compliance issues. I demonstrated the cognitive domain of evaluation by validating and critiquing different medications, forming judgments about those medications, and reaching conclusions based on the information gathered and values of social work. Schizophrenia Medication Analysis

Field Evidence: I conducted a literature review on Equine-Assisted Mental Health Therapy and implemented many of the techniques outlined in my practice at Mending Arrow Ranch. Some of the techniques and models used included adaptive riding skills, relationship building, trauma-based movement and fight/flight/freeze theories, Equine-Assisted Counseling, Equine-Assisted Learning, and Equine-Based Mindfulness. The information, theories, and interventions learned through my literature review will be displayed throughout my current and future practice, which demonstrates the affective domain of characterization. Equine-Assisted Therapy Literature Review

Additional Evidence: In my Advanced Administrative Practice and Leadership class, I worked with a team to analyze the budget for an organization by calculating income projections, return on investment (ROI), revenue, assets, expenses, and the breakeven point. This financial analysis allowed us to evaluate the efficiency in the organization’s expenditures and make recommendations for future budgetary needs. Financial Analysis

In my undergraduate studies, I composed an article critique for an article that examined the effects of equine-assisted therapy specifically with combat veterans. The study showed improved quality of life in the veterans, but I discussed some of the flaws with their research including the inability to fully measure the effects over a small amount of time. Equine-Assisted Therapy Article Critique