Discussion Post: Contemplating Your Future- Applying Knowledge of Research in Program Evaluation
While there is benefit to acquiring knowledge for its own sake, social work research and program evaluations are not merely academic exercises. Both social work research and the various types of program evaluations you have studied throughout this course should be used to directly improve day-to-day practice and service to clients. Social workers have the responsibility not only to conduct program evaluations and research but also share the knowledge they possess for the benefit of others. Modern technologies have given social workers the ability to quickly and easily share the results of their research and evaluation to improve social work practice on a large scale.
You analyze the process of sharing evaluation results with others. You also analyze the applicability of what you have learned in this course to your future as a social work student and working professional.
Learning Objectives
1) Analyze the process of presenting evaluation results to others
2) Evaluate strategies for presenting evaluation results to others
3) Analyze the applicability of social work research and program evaluation to future goals
The NASW Code of Ethics makes a number of statements about social workers' responsibility to study, use, and engage in research and evaluation. In the past, many social workers had difficulty thinking of themselves as knowledgeable and capable in research, despite completing the required research course in school. Think of yourself as a part of a new breed of social workers. You are completing your education at a point in time that places great emphasis on both research and evaluation. You also have greater access to published research than ever before. Research knowledge and skills are like muscles-if you do not use them, they will atrophy. You have an ethical obligation as a social worker to exercise and flex your research muscle. Consider how the NASW Code of Ethics guides your professional research.
Provide a 300-Word Discussion Post:
1) An analysis of how you can apply new knowledge and skills related to research and evaluation, acquired in this course to your future career.
2) Identify specific knowledge and strategies and how you intend to apply them.
3) Identify those skills that you believe will be most applicable to achieving your future goals.
The response should include a reference list. One-inch margins, Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space and APA style of writing and citations.