'I don't think they look at this as an issue'. Exploring the training and development needs of practice educators in social work field education

Abstract

Social work field education is central to qualifying social work degrees, whereby placements support students to explore the connection between theory and practice, gain frontline experience before entering the workforce, and socialize into the profession. While research has captured student learning experiences, the perspectives of social workers supervising student placements have received less attention. This article examines the training and development needs of practice educators (PEs), also known as field educators, from across Aotearoa New Zealand, reporting on findings from a national survey. Drawing attention to desired areas for development, gaps in provision, low levels of satisfaction, and challenges to accessing training including cost, time, and visibility of opportunities, the findings suggest the current level of professional development specific to this role is variable, and PEs are interested in accessing further training. These findings reiterate the importance of resourcing and highlight considerations for establishing partnerships across education institutions, the professional association, and potentially the regulation authority to support consistency, development, and delivery.