Paradigm for the Generalist-Advanced Generalist Continuum

Abstract

Social work faculty and practitioners have long argued the definition and parameters of the advanced generalist concept. This article explores the concept of generalist-advanced generalist in practice and in education and advances a paradigm for framing the Bachelor of Social Work-Master of Social Work educational continuum. It further argues that the generalist-advanced generalist continuum is particularly well suited to practice in small towns and rural areas. It further argues that the generalist-advanced generalist continuum is particularly well suited to practice in small towns and rural areas because it provides an educational strategy for preparing both entry level and advanced level social workers with the full range of skills needed for practice in these environmental contexts because content on advanced generalist practice is infused in all foundation, field instruction, and areas of specialty in the advanced curriculum.