Mirror Method as an Approach for Critical Evaluation in Social Work

Abstract

In this article, the Mirror method is studied as an approach to critical evaluation. The method offers a research approach to social work practice that is in line with the ideology, mission, and purposes of critical evaluation. The strengths of the approach include a dialogical process, an empowering effect, an understanding towards a client's situation as a whole, collective knowledge creation, and integration into daily social work. The potential of the Mirror method to facilitate critical thinking, enable changes towards equality, challenge oppression, and empower marginalized and silenced groups should be explored in the evaluation process.

Integrating theory and practice in social work: An intervention with practitioners in Finland

“…This contributes to the well-being of the social workers, the quality of the services and the discovery of new forms of helping the clients. Similar results of gaining new self-understanding, mastery and sense of new choices have been found in other reflective groups (Fook and Askeland, 2006;Fook and Gardner, 2007: 143;Kivipelto and Yliruka, 2012;Nilsen et al, 2011). We propose that Practice and Theory group intervention could accompany these reflective practices.…”

“…In the group, taking a piece of research as a starting point for reflection differs from other reflective group models (Fook and Gardner, 2007; Kivipelto and Yliruka, 2012; Nilsen et al., 2011) and from external group supervision provided to Finnish social workers regularly. Although theoretical knowledge initiates the reflection, theory is not privileged over practice.…”