The Australian Association of Social Work (AASW) Practice Standards 2013

Brief Description of Agency or Program: describe what will be the focus for this placement, please attach additional program plan if relevant.

INTRODUCTION TO YOUR FIELD EDUCATION LEARNING PLAN
• The Australian Association of Social Work (AASW) Practice Standards 2013 http://www.asn.au/practionerresources/practicestandards have been used, and in some instances adapted, to

develop the Practice Standards, Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria in this document.
• This Learning Plan is to be used by all students undertaking first and final placements in field education. It is a working document, and students and Field Educators should refer to it to

assess progress and identify additional learning needs, throughout the placement.
• Students are required to develop a plan for learning for each of the eight Practice Standards.
Assessment Level
• AASW Social Work and Accreditation standards (ASWEAS) 2012 guideline 1.2, 4.8, p10 note ‘field education curricula must incorporate a development component, such as a rating scale’.

A rating scale identifies level of achievement and is to be used to assist students and Field Educators to assess the students’ performance.
• This scale will be used by for assessing the student’s achievement for each Practice Standard. Agreement from all participants on the recommended achievement level, will be sought,

but if there is disagreement this will be noted in the report. At the end of the placement the final decision to pass or fail the placement will belong to the relevant university.
• There is a required level for passing placements. The required level for passing the first placement is “Beginning competence” for each Practice Standard and for the second placement,

“Competent” for each Practice Standard.

RATING   CODE   DESCRIPTION
Not Assessable   NA   The work has either not been undertaken, or the Field Educator/s has not had an opportunity to assess capability in this area.
Not Competent   NC   Performance not at basic level expected. Poor understanding of requirements. Practice unsafe or inappropriate. Knowledge or skills undeveloped. Little application to

learning.
Developing Competence DC Performance not yet competent for level of placement. Some requirements understood. Further work and/or practice needed to demonstrate the required

level of competence. Limited ability to integrate knowledge and theory into practice; to articulate progress against the practice standard; to engage in critical reflexivity and to exhibit ethical

fluency.
Beginning Competence BC Minimum required level for end of first placement
Performance at beginning level expected in this setting. Requirements understood. Practice is competent under guidance and supervision. Some ability to integrate knowledge and theory into

practice; to articulate progress against the practice standard; to engage in critical reflexivity and to exhibit ethical fluency.
Competent C Minimum required level for end of second placement
Can perform independently with appropriate level of supervision. Demonstrates adaptability and critical appreciation of own/other’s practice. Strong ability to integrate knowledge and theory

into practice; to articulate progress against the practice standard; to engage in critical reflexivity and to exhibit ethical fluency.
Highly Competent HC Performance beyond what is expected of a student at this level. High levels of appropriate independent practice. Exceptional ability to integrate knowledge and

theory into practice; to articulate progress against the practice standard; to engage in critical reflexivity and to exhibit ethical fluency.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA   WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?   HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS STANDARD?
These are stated and set by the university.   Name the learning activities on placement that will enable you to achieve the standard.
The Assessment criteria will assist you to identify the core learning requirements for the standard.
You can use particular activities to demonstrate more than one standard. Please note at least two and no more than five activities per standard.
Examples of activities that can be used include:
•   working with a group,
•   research activities,
•   chairing meetings,
•   case management,
•   facilitating community meetings.
Activities will differ depending on the placement.    Tentatively identify which piece of evidence you will use to demonstrate achievement of the learning outcome. Examples of a piece of

evidence include:
•   the completion of a process recording,
•   significant learning incident,
•   case study,
•   critical reflection,
•   ethical dilemma/ decision making.
Students may use more than one piece of evidence to demonstrate more than one practice standard

Work health and Safety: Student has been provided with the Agency’s WHS policies and undergone an induction or training program.

Supervision Arrangements:
Note- student should have up to one hour per day on average for reflection and field placement assessment tasks.
How often will you meet? Please include dates.

Pattern of supervision, ie group / individual

Who will provide support and education if your Field Educator is absent?

Agreed reasonable adjustments (if relevant):
To be negotiated between the student, agency and university for students with vision/hearing/ mobility/ learning/psychiatric disabilities or medical conditions.

VALUES AND ETHICS
PRACTICE STANDARD 1: Social work students demonstrate social work values, uphold their ethical responsibilities and act appropriately when faced with ethical problems, issues and dilemmas.

(see AASW Practice Standards 2013, 1.1 and 1.2, p 9.)
LEARNING OUTCOME 1.1: Practice in accordance with the Code of Ethics (2010), and identify ethical dilemmas and issues arising in practice.
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i. Demonstrates an awareness of the relevance of the AASW Code of Ethics within the placement setting (eg: promotion of social justice and commitment to the dignity, value and

uniqueness of individuals, social units, communities and cultures).
ii.   Identifies and critically reflects on ethical issues in accordance with the ethical responsibilities of the Code of Ethics.
iii.   Seeks out supervision with supervisor/s when faced with an ethical dilemma.
iv.   Critically reflects on, and examines personal and professional ethics and values that may influence practice.
And in addition for Final placement
v.   Identifies in discussion with supervisor/s the impact of social systems and structures that perpetuate inequality and injustice.
vi.   Maintains an open and respectful perspective towards the values, views and opinions of others and is able to seek to incorporate notions of individual rights and needs, and collective

responsibilities.

PROFESSIONALISM
PRACTICE STANDARDS 2 and 8: Social work students act with integrity, are accountable and reliable, and demonstrate a commitment to their learning in placement. (see AASW Practice Standards

2013, Professionalism, 2.1 and 2.2, p 10 and Professional development and supervision, 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3, p17.)
LEARNING OUTCOME 2.1: Be accountable and behave in a professional manner, and represent the social work profession with integrity and professionalism.
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i.   Demonstrates responsibility, accountability, reliability and initiative.
ii.   Maintains professional/personal boundaries.
iii.   Seeks support and information or refers people when professional capabilities are exceeded.
iv.   Demonstrates an understanding of social work as a profession and how it differs from other professions.
v.   Understands the importance of maintaining personal well-being and managing the emotional impact of the work.
And in addition for Final placement
vi.   Articulates the values, processes and outcomes of social work and how they apply in the context of the placement.
vii.   Acknowledges that social work positions carry power, and uses authority responsibly, so that social marginalization and inequality are not perpetuated.
viii.   Recognizes and declares conflicts of interest when they arise.
ix.   Works with increased autonomy

LEARNING OUTCOME 2.2: Actively participate in learning
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i.   Actively seeks opportunities for feedback from supervisor/s, colleagues and peers.
ii.   Contributes to the learning of others through participating in seminars and other learning opportunities with peers.
And in addition for Final placement
iii.   Demonstrates the ability to engage in critical reflective practice in supervision and in practice, including examination of personal and professional values that influence practice.
iv.   Identifies learning needs and seeks out opportunities to address these needs through training, consultation, supervision and support.

CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE AND INCLUSIVE PRACTICE
PRACTICE STANDARD 3: Social work students have a sound understanding and knowledge of cultural diversity in order to work in a culturally inclusive way (see AASW Practice Standards 2013, 3.1

and 3.2, p11.)
LEARNING OUTCOME 3.1: Work respectively and inclusively with cultural difference and diversity
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i.   Demonstrates knowledge of diversity between and within different cultures including ethnicity, disability, economic status, age, sexuality, gender and transgender, faiths and beliefs.
ii.   Critically reflects on own personal values, cultures and beliefs and how these impact on interactions with people, colleagues and community members.
And in addition for Final placement
iii.   Modifies practice in order to work effectively and inclusively with people who have different and diverse cultural identities, values, affiliations, beliefs and customs.

LEARNING OUTCOME 3.2: Respect, strive to understand, and promote the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their cultures
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i. Seeks out knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders culture, protocols and practices in a local context.
And in addition for Final placement
ii. Acknowledge and understands the historical and continuing disadvantage and oppression of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the impact this has on practice.

KNOWLEDGE FOR PRACTICE
PRACTICE STANDARD 4: Social work students demonstrate, knowledge for practice, and skills of enquiry and curiosity where new knowledge is required. (see AASW Practice Standards 2013, 4.1,

4.2. 4.3 and 4.4, pp12 and 13.)
LEARNING OUTCOME 4.1: Understand the impact of systemic influences on practice
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i.   Demonstrates understanding and awareness of organisational policies and their impact on people, in their placement context.
ii.   Demonstrates understanding of relevant legislation governing practice and the legal frameworks which inform and mandate practice
iii.   Critically analyses the impact of social and organizational policies on practice.
iv.   Identifies and analyses the values and ethical principles that underpin policies.
And in addition for Final placement
v.   Critically reflects on the impact of public debate and the economic, cultural and political environment, on policy and program development and service provision.
vi.   Identifies aspects of policy that are inappropriate, inconsistent or inadequate.

LEARNING OUTCOME 4.2: Understand and discuss relevant social work and other theories and concepts
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA   WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?   HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement         The school uses retroactive justice approach
i.   Identifies and describes the social work model or approach used in their practice, and its theoretical and conceptual underpinnings.
ii.   Identifies other areas of learning that assist practice in this context, such as human development, child welfare, mental health or social policy.
And in addition for Final placement
iii.   Articulates and uses knowledge from other relevant subjects such as law, sociology, anthropology, politics, history, social theory, psychology, humanities and philosophy.
iv.   Develops and articulates a personal practice framework that draws on contemporary theory, knowledge, methods, skills and professional values.

LEARNING OUTCOME 4.3: Understand the role of research and evaluation in obtaining and generating new knowledge for practice
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i.   Proactively seeks out new knowledge relevant to practice context, including searching & reading academic literature.
ii.   Analyses how data collection systems are used by the agency and its funding body, in program development & evaluation.
And in addition for Final placement
iii.   Within the placement context demonstrates understanding of relevant principles & methodological considerations when conducting research activities.
iv.   Distinguishes between various sources of knowledge such as practice evidence & experiences, personal & community knowledge &experience, knowledge of organisations & policies,

&legal &ethical knowledge to help inform practice.

APPLYING KNOWLEDGE TO PRACTICE
PRACTICE STANDARD 5 Social work students demonstrate skills required to implement knowledge in practice (see AASW Practice Standards 2013, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4 p 14.)
LEARNING OUTCOME 5.1: Applies social work knowledge to undertake effective assessment and interventions, to respond to meeting the needs of individuals groups and communities.
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i. Undertake an effective and holistic assessment by gathering relevant information appropriate to the person/organization and practice context.
ii. Supports people to decide what service/s they want to assist in meeting needs, taking into account any limitations to their capability, voluntary/involuntary status and the choices

available.
iii.   Works with other agencies, teams and across jurisdictions at a practice and policy level.
And in addition for Final placement
iv.   Analyses the information gleaned from the assessment, along with knowledge and theory in specific practice areas to inform practice.
v.   When appropriate, develops a service plan that outlines what is being offered, objectives/goals and planned outcomes, and evaluates and reviews the plan routinely.

LEARNING OUTCOME 5.2: Uses a range of specific social work methods &techniques, and applies critical reflective thinking to practice.
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i.   Selects appropriate method of practice relevant to practical context to address and meet the needs, goals and preferences of people.
ii.   Critically reflects on and evaluates practice with a particular focus on principles of self-determination, empowerment, inclusion, equality, human rights and social justice
iii.   Critically reflects on the broader organisational, societal and political context of practice.
And in addition for Final placement
iv.   Critically reflects on the role of the social worker paying particular attention to power imbalances, professional boundaries, use of authority in statutory positions and work with

people who are using services involuntarily.

COMMUNICATION AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS
PRACTICE STANDARD 6: Social work students demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills. (see AASW Practice Standards 2013, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, p 15)
LEARNIING OUTCOME 6.1: Effectively communicate with a diverse range of people
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i.   Uses appropriate ( as required in the context) verbal and non-verbal communication skills with individuals, community members, colleagues, and relevant others.
ii.   Builds rapport with people, and shows empathy, genuineness, warmth, and integrity in all interactions.
iii.   Effectively communicates the details and nature of the service offered to people.
And in addition for Final placement
iv.   Engages with, and includes people in decision making processes that affect them, as far as possible, including those using services involuntarily.
v.   Demonstrates skill in the use of information technology and in providing reports and/or services in an online environment.

LEARNING OUTCOME 6.2: Effectively work with others; in teams and with student colleagues in groups
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i. Relates to social work and other colleagues with respect, integrity and courtesy.
And in addition for Final placement
ii. Contributes discipline specific social work values, principles and practice to team activities.

INFORMATION RECORDING AND SHARING
PRACTICE STANDARD 7: Social work students use ethical principles, and are accurate and professional, as they write reports, record data and collect and share information. (see AASW Practice

Standards 2013, 7.1 and 7.2, p16.)
LEARNING OUTCOME 7.1: Record and maintain information appropriately
ASSESSMENT CRITIERIA WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL ASSIST YOU TO ACHIEVE THIS LEARNING OUTCOME? HOW WILL YOU EVIDENCE THAT YOU HAVE MET THIS LEARNING OUTCOME?
First placement

i.   Informs people of social work records and the purpose for which a record is made.
ii.   Informs people of who will/may have access to their records and why.
iii.   Advises people of how to access their records.
iv.   Writes information in an accurate, objective and contemporaneous manner, acknowledging the basis of any subjective opinions.
v.   Demonstrates skill in writing using diverse mediums; including formal reports, data collection for the agency and information technology as required.
And in addition for Final placement
vi.   Demonstrates awareness of how information is stored in accordance with ethical principles including confidentiality, informed consent and accountability.
vii.   Understands relevant legislation with respect to record keeping in area of practice.

Other comments:

Signatures:

Student: Date:

Field Educator Date:

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