Translating Concept into Act forMulti-Cultural Practice: Comparison of Students’ and Field Instructors’ Perceptions of Diversity Training Effectiveness
Education for culturally competent practice increasingly is a responsibility
for social work educators.Using data collected for an evaluation of the field education
component of a large,Midwestern social work program, the purpose of this
study is to shed light on students’ application in the field practicum setting of classroom training
in culturally competent practice. Responses were obtained from field
instructors (n=76) and students (n=70). Students reported learning in areas dealing
with diversity at statistically significant levels; however, instructor ratings of student
competence were significantly lower than student ratings. Results are discussed in
light of necessary attitudes, knowledge, and skills. Implications for program monitoring
and improvement, education, and further research are discussed.
