Simulations as a teaching strategy in Social Work training

Abstract

This paper is about the simulations' systematization and evaluation, implemented over 13 years, as part of the training of Social Work students at the University of Costa Rica. As a product of the systematization, the simulations' theoretical foundation is detailed, integrated by student-centered approach, situated learning, and cultural-historical theory. Besides, the didactic process had two moments: first, the strategy preparation and implementation, and second the debriefing with all the participants. The evaluation was implemented in 2017, 2018, and 2019. A questionnaire was developed and completed by 60 students in these three years. The students consider the simulations as a more dynamic approximation to the knowledge provided by the course, through the practical approach to situations they will face in their professional practice. The students acquired several learnings with this training, on a theoretical, methodological, and technical level, as well as the development of skills for the attention of crises.