Solving Current Social Challenges: Engaging Undergraduates in Policy Practice |
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Authors: | Margaret Sherraden Baorong Guo Christine Umbertino |
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Affiliation: | 1. School of Social Work, University of Missouri-St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA;2. Center for Social Development, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USAsherraden@umsl.edu;4. Center for Social Development, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA;5. Brown School of Social Work, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri |
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Abstract: | This article explores an innovation in teaching policy practice at the undergraduate level. It analyzes an experiential learning model that uses current social challenges as a compelling way to generate student learning about policy practice. Over the course of the semester, students examine antecedents, current issues, and potential solutions to a contemporary social issue through a series of assignments that build knowledge and skills and link the topic to larger social policy concerns. Using quantitative and qualitative evidence from seven semesters, the article explores benefits and challenges of this approach to teaching, and derives lessons for social work education. |
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Keywords: | experiential learning policy practice social work education undergraduate social work education |
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