Developing Research Based Social Work Practice

Evidence-based practice is important to all social work students and practitioners. This book offers an informative account of why research matters to good practice and the importance of being research-minded. Clear, coherent and focused, it is invaluable reading across a range of research-oriented modules in the social work curriculum.

Developing Research Based Social Work Practice explores how research can improve the quality of social work. It provides an overview of the core theoretical concepts and the processes and practices in undertaking research.

Locating the place of social work research within the social sciences, this innovative book promotes critical debate to strengthen both the research base and day-to-day practice. It is designed to encourage ''reflective research practitioners'' - professionals who are both critically reflective and research aware - and does so by:

? presenting a range of approaches within research;
? highlighting distinctive aspects of social work research, such as emancipatory
research and researching sensitive topics;
? reflecting on the strengths of research and identifying how to utilize findings;
? introducing beginning researchers to the rationales for undertaking research.

Highlighting the importance of how research informs practice, this book is essential reading for students on qualifying and post-qualifying courses, practitioners, managers and policy makers.