Social Work and Simulations : Teaching Practice, Research, Policy, and Social Injustices

Social Work and Simulations describes how simulated learning experiences can be a powerful modality for social work education. Based on a variety of realistic situations and guided by the creation of a safe learning environment, students actively engage in and observe simulations followed by group reflections and discussions. The simulations are a powerful and immersive learning experience for students and teachers alike. They fill an important gap in social work education as they provide students with realistic learning experiences about the more human elements of practice without real-life consequences before beginning work in the field.

Based on five years of work and research on simulated learning experiences, this book highlights the integration of simulations in practice, research, and policy classes at the School of Social Work, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). It illustrates the versatile application of simulations in teaching social work practice across various settings, including mental health, schools, libraries, disabilities, and end-of-life care. It explores the use of simulations in teaching clinical research methods, program evaluation, policy analysis, macro social work, and fostering interprofessional collaborations. This book further discusses the use of online simulations in social work education, highlighting the pivotal role played by doctoral students in designing and executing simulations, aligning them with specific learning objectives, and facilitating student engagement and reflection in various contexts. Presented in a mixture of writing styles and research methodologies, Social Work and Simulations offers a candid reflection on simulations from the perspectives of students and instructors. It emphasizes the creation of brave spaces to foster open dialogue, sharing, and reflection on social work competencies within the context of social injustice, diversity, and inclusion. Through immersive experiences, simulations offer a transformative approach to social work education, encouraging students and instructors to engage more deeply with the multifaced and human aspects of social work practice. Overall, this book provides rich case studies and practical guidance, offering valuable resources for developing ethical and effective simulations in social work education.