Field education provides students with opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in practice settings with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Field placements are a core component of the Bachelor of Social Work program and play a central role in preparing students for professional practice.
Student's in Trent's BSW program complete a minimum of 700 hours of supervised field placement during the Professional Years. Most students complete two placements:
- 240 hours in Year 3, and
- 460 hours in Year 4.
Field Practicum Learning Objectives
Throughout their field placements, students are expected to develop the knowledge, values, and skills required for effective generalist social work practice. Learning in placement settings is guided by the following objectives:
Professional Social Work Identity
Develop a professional social work identity grounded in the values and ethics of the profession. Students demonstrate the ability to understand and apply the Canadian Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics, as well as core social work values and principles.
Professional and Reflective Practice
Practice reflectively and apply critical thinking, analysis, and inquiry in social work practice.
Engagement with Individuals, Groups, and Communities
Develop skills to work effectively with individuals, families, groups, and communities through a planned change process.
Equity, Diversity, and Social Justice
Demonstrate knowledge and ability related to providing effective services to service users whose identities reflect and intersect across diverse social positions.
Indigenous Peoples and Communities
Demonstrate an understanding of Indigenous perspectives and their relevance to social work practice.
Environmental Sustainability and Ecological Practice
Demonstrate an understanding of social work practice from an environmental and ecological perspective.
Policy
Understand how social policies, in various forms, influence agency services and impact service users and communities. Students develop practice orientations and frameworks informed by social justice and anti-oppressive principles.
Research
Apply research skills to strengthen professional practice and develop a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of service users.