Virtual Communication for Field Education Placements in a Global Context

Context Of Field Education

No agreed upon concept regarding “international social work” has been identified in recent literature. The re-emerging possibility ‘for social work to play a role in international social work and social development’ (McDonald, 2007, p.187), as with social work per se, is likely to be interpreted according to the context. How might our academic programs accommodate this concept to prepare students for placements in contexts which are sometimes oppositional to that from which they come? Whilst various forms of ‘international’ social work have been identified which draw upon social work ‘professional expertise’ (Healy, 2001) the more likely auspices for our student placements in countries in transition to date have been in ‘community development’ contexts participating in environments and programs in new ways which may fit uncomfortably with their Australian social work. Howmight we prepare students for ‘the development of practices that are relevant in local contexts’ to graduate, after a short period of time (seventy days) as a “development practitioner” ?(Gray, 2005, p.236).

Pettys et al (2005) promote an intensive and extensive pre-departure program encompassing the geography, politics, economics and social orientation of the placement destination. From our experience we would also recommend that special attention be given to student understanding of gender relations and other social classifications in different contexts. Each group of students on placement in India has indicated that they are quite challenged by these. The most recent reactions were highlighted by the critical incident reports of some students after their visit to an non-government organization (NGO) which provides shelter to trafficked women. Gender also impacts significantly on what tasks male and female students can and cannot undertake in the field. Boyle et al, Tesoriero and Rajaratnam (1999) focus on student preparation for group placements, the group being an important source of support ‘during the ongoing stress of engaging intensely with another culture’ (p.211). Commenting on international student exchanges between Malaysia and Australia, Martin and Ling (2008) stress the importance of attending to students’ physical, psychological and social needs to reduce levels of stress and anxiety and support students to make the necessary adaptations and adjustments to the new culture and learning environment. They also highlight the importance of preparation for the return home to assist with settling back into the home university and culture. They contend that ’all of these activities support cultural adjustment, academic performance, personal development and overall enjoyment of the exchange experience’ (p.11).