Social and Community Development Practice

Abstract

It is puzzling that India, which has a large domestic constituency of people suffering from underdevelopment, chronic poverty and mal-governance, is emerging as an important aid

Reflective Learning and Teaching in Social Work Field Education in International Contexts

“…Further, Noble's (2001) research has demonstrated that students' use of field reflections and narratives can facilitate their learning. This is confirmed in another study that shows that students can learn better by returning to and reflecting on their placement experiences, by attending to feelings through utilising positive feelings and removing obstructing feelings, and by re-evaluating experience through association, integration, validation and appropriation (Boud et al, 1985;Pawar et al, 2004;Pawar and Anscombe, 2015). On similar lines, Cleak et al, 2014 suggest the need for more interactive and creative approaches to facilitate learning.…”

“…Another strength noted in the study was the peer support that the two students received from each other in the course of their placements , which clearly prevented undue emotional stress in a culturally foreign country (Pawar, 2014). The students' motivation and commitment to the practicum were also noted as important strengths in the overseas placement (Pawar and Anscombe, 2015).…”

“…It is acknowledged that there are significant socio-cultural and economic differences and similarities between Australia and India, and in the modus operandi of social work education (see Pawar, 2000Pawar, , 2014. Students were made aware of these differences as part of the preparation.…”

“…The review points out that the available literature does not focus on how students learn in international placements and how they face weaknesses and challenges by drawing on their strengths. Thus, building on the previous research (Pawar et al, 2004;Cox and Pawar, 2013;Pawar and Anscombe, 2015), the article focuses on reflective learning and teaching. The second section describes the context of the study in terms of the background of the placement agencies, two non-government organisations (NGOs) and preparatory work for the placements, which included early planning and several aspects of professional and personal preparation.…”

Re-inventing Community Development: Utilizing Relational Networking and Cultural Assets for Infrastructure Provision

“…Participation counters the reductionist perspective of community development. Basically, the application of values and principles of community development involves upholding or practising human rights, and encouraging people to be self-reliant, to think, to make decisions, own them and to participate in the entire process [30,3,40]. As captured by AEEF chairperson,…”