Development, delivery and evaluation of a social work elective offered in a hospital setting

Abstract

This paper describes a qualitative study about a Master’s level elective course offered on-site at a Canadian pediatric hospital and delivered by frontline hospital social workers. Ten social workers and four students participated in the study which captured their experiences in the course. A grounded theory approach guided this study. Social workers discussed an enhanced sense of professional self, impact on their daily roles and various opportunities resulting from participation. Students discussed diversity, development of a realistic understanding of the social work role and the unique format of the course. Implications for future course development and university-agency partnerships are discussed.Keywords: social work; education; pediatrics; hospital; teaching