Teaching International Social Work in a Global Classroom

Abstract

Social work educators are challenged with preparing students for international social work and/or work with immigrant/refugee populations. This pilot project aimed to develop an online "global classroom" to teach an international social work course to social work students from five different countries participating from their home countries: USA (N=25), South Africa (N=4), Mexico (N=11), Hong Kong (N=6), and Australia (N=2). Qualitative data were collected from students regarding their experiences in this global classroom. Thematic analysis revealed the development of rich authentic learning, where their interactions with international classmates led to a transformative learning experience and a beginning sense of social work in a global context. Implications for future leaning and teaching of social work content across global borders was discussed.

Analyzing International Social Work in Undergraduate Social Work Curriculum

“…While there is not much peer-reviewed literature on international social work education models for the classroom setting, the few that do exist have multiple overlapping points. When looking at two models proposed by Davis et al (2019) and Wehbi (2008), both recognize the importance of taking culture into consideration. They also promote looking at issues in a country with the strengths available in the country and viewing it as a problem for all countries to work on together.…”

“…The model by Davis et al (2019), proposed the use of a global classroom for the teaching of international social work. The global classroom in their model used an online learning system to host online class material and assignments for students from multiple different countries.…”