Critical Conversations in Compensating Social Work Field Education: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This article challenges social work programs to have the critical conversation of paid/compensated practicum education experiences. The social work profession is embedded in identified values and ethics. Reviewing the historical practice of unpaid practicum education placements from a lens of the social work profession's fundamental values and ethics is essential for the continued success of social work education and its programs. A systematic review was completed to locate literature that either substantiated the need for paid and/or compensated practicum education placements or provide guidance to social work programs on how to engage in critical conversations regarding the implementation of paid / compensated practicum education experiences. There were no results found in the literature that substantiated the need or reflects that social work education, within the USA, are having conversations on compensated practicum experiences. A call-to-action challenges social work programs to have these conversations as to support the success of social work students. Implications of compensated practicum education for social work students, social work programs, practicum sites, and scholars will be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]