Higher Diploma in Social Work - EdUHK

Unit of Associate Degree Studies

Higher Diploma in Social Work

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Field Practicum Handbook

Table of Contents

Page

1 Introduction ………………………………………………………...………….… 3

2 Field Practicum Overview ………………………………………………........... 4

Field Education in the HD (SW) Curriculum 4

Objectives of HD (SW) Programme 4

Purpose of Field Practicum 4

3 General Description of Field Practicum ………………………………………. 4

Nature of Field Practicum 4

Desirable Practicum Agencies 5

Duration 5

Preparation for Practicum 6

4 Learning Objectives ………………………………………………….…...……. 7

Objectives of Field Practicum I 7

Objectives of Field Practicum II 8

5 Placement Requirements ……………………………………………………...... 8

Attendance 8

Agreement on Field Practicum Learning Contract 8

6 Assessment and Evaluation ………………………………………………………. 9

Assignments 9

Assessment 9

Supervision 11

Data Collection for studying other courses of HD(SW) 11

7 Social Work Field Practicum Logistics & Administrative Arrangement ……... 11

Field Practicum Committee 11

Field Practicum Coordinator 12

Field Practicum Supervisor 12

Leave and Absence 13

Early Termination or Suspension of Practicum 14

Disposition of Practicum Records 14

Procedures for handling students’ grievances and appeals 14

8 Student Personal Development …………………………………………………. 15

Rights of Student in Social Work Practicum 15

Responsibilities of Student in Social Work Practicum 15

Professional Code of Practice 16

Student Self-Evaluation 16

Guidance and Counselling 16

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Appendices Page

Annex 1 Programme Curriculum of Higher Diploma in Social Work …………..… 18

Annex 2 Orientation Report – Guideline…………………………………………… 20

Annex 3 Notification of Leave or Absence………………………………………… 21

Annex 4 Student Field Practicum Timetable and Supervision Record……………… 22

Annex 5 Fieldwork Learning Contact……………………………………………… 23

Annex 6 Guidelines on Workload Requirement…………………………………… 24

Annex 7 Field Practicum Log Sheet ………………………………………………… 26

Annex 8 Checklist of Assignment on Field Practicum……………………………… 27

Annex 9 Student Self-Evaluation Form …………………………………………… 29

Annex 10 Field Practicum Evaluation Report………………..…..…………………… 30

Annex 11 Agency Feedback Form on Student Performance………………………… 36

Annex 12 Photo-taking/ Video or Audio Taping: Client Consent Form……………… 37

Annex 13 Student Feedback Form on Agency and Supervision……………………… 39

Annex 14 Student Feedback Form on Field Practicum ………………………………. 41

Annex 15 Code of Practice ……………………………………………………………. 42

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1. Introduction

1.1 The Higher Diploma in Social Work [HD(SW)] offers both academic and

professional studies for students who are interested in and seek careers in the

field of social work. The programme aims at training students to become

competent, responsible and independent social work practitioners. In the

course of classroom study and field education experience, students obtain a

variety of intervention skills and assessment techniques. The skills acquired

will help facilitate students in identifying areas of work suited to unique

situations; evaluate a suitable intervention fit between the needs of clients

systems and the resources available in the environment, and intervene in an

appropriate and effective manner.

1.2 HD(SW) students are expected to develop and be equipped with social work

theories, skills for practice and professional values. This programme includes

100-hour field work preparation and a total of 700-hour field practicum,

enabling students to meet the criteria of accredited social work qualifications

to be Registered Social Workers. The purpose of the field practicum is to offer

students the opportunities to integrate and apply classroom learning to actual

agency work situation and acquire the skills needed to function in a social

work practice setting. At the same time, the field practicum is imperative to

every student in their development of generalist practitioner skills and a

professional social work identity.

1.3 This Field Practicum Handbook is developed to help students understand the

policies, arrangements and procedures of their field practicum. It is a useful

reference for the students, field practicum supervisors, and all parties

associated with the Programme.

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2. Field Practicum Overview

2.1 Field Education in the HD(SW) Curriculum

The field education in the HD(SW) offered by Unit of Associate Degree

Studies (ADS) provides students with the opportunity to apply theories and

skills they learn in the classroom to actual practice. We believe that there are

common components in all social work practice; knowledge, values, and skills

that are applicable to a wide range of client systems, problems, and settings.

The major objective of field education is to develop students’ competence in

social work practice to assume a range of professional roles.

2.2 Objectives of the HD(SW)

The HD(SW) is committed to educating and training competent social work

practitioners. Upon completion of this Programme, students are expected to:

become competent generalist social work practitioners;

be engaged in social work practice that upholds professional standards,

value and ethnics;

demonstrate knowledge and practical skills that help clients increase their

abilities in problem-solving and self-development; and

possess an academic foundation for social work as a basis for further

professional studies.

2.3 Purpose of the Field Practicum

To give students the opportunity to apply theory to practice and develop core

skills for practice with diverse clients systems and communities, the field

practicum placement in a human service organization is a valuable experience

for students. The field experience integrates knowledge, values and skills

learnt from the social work courses in the programme.

In both Field Practicum I & II, the problem-solving process, social work

values and ethics, recording and workload management as well as the

importance of self-awareness will be addressed. Both Field Practicum will

expose students in social work with different size client systems- individuals,

families, groups, organizations and communities.

3. General Description of Field Practicum

3.1 Nature of Field Practicum

The Field Practicum is designed to

develop students’ practical social work skills;

expose students to assignments in clinical practice in various clients

systems;

provide opportunities for students to demonstrate social work principles and

values in their action and attitude; and

allow students the opportunity to participate in on-going professional

development.

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3.2 Desirable Practicum Agencies

Agencies that are able to provide students with a range of assignments with a

diversity of target groups, i.e. individuals, families, groups, organizations, and

communities, are desirable.

3.3 Duration

Students will take Field Practicum I & II for a total of 700 hours in their two

years of study. Students will have to attend 100 hours of experiential

learning through workshops, camp and agency visits in field work preparation

as a prerequisite to participate in the first practicum.

3.3.1 Field Practicum I (Block Placement) – 300 hours

The placement will take place in the summer break after Year 1. This block

placement will last for eight weeks, from June to August 2015. In this

placement, students will work five days a week in the placement agencies.

3.3.2 Field Practicum II (Concurrent Placement) – 400 hours

This concurrent placement will last for 7 months from October 2015 to May

2016 in Year 2. They will work on Tuesdays and Fridays (16 hours a week)

in their placement agencies and attend classes on other days of the week

concurrently.

3.3.3 This practicum mode will help students move to-and-fro between learning

within classroom and the practice reality in the agencies, thus fostering

integration in a two-way process. The curriculum structure of HD(SW) is

attached in Annex I.

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3.4 Preparation for the placement

Preparation

3.4.1 Before the start of field practicum, the field practicum supervisor will get a

preliminary understanding of the placement student through a face-to-face

meeting, usually during the pre-placement workshop attended by both the

supervisors and the students.

3.4.2 The field practicum supervisor will also arrange a meeting with the agency

representative or service unit supervisor to (a) get a full background of the

organization and its services, (b) establish co-working relationship as well as

(c) explore possible field work assignments for the students.

Orientation 3.4.3 An orientation meeting with the placement student and the field practicum

supervisor will then be set up to conclude the Fieldwork Learning Contract

(the guidelines are set out in Annex 5) to develop intended learning objectives,

needs and expectations, capabilities, special interests and working

opportunities to practicum students. This learning contract with endorsement

from field practicum supervisor and student concerned will be submitted to the

field practicum supervisor on or before the second week of field practicum.

3.4.4 After meetings with practicum students and the practicum agency/unit

representative separately, the field practicum supervisor will then convene a

meeting together with all two parties again to work out details of the

placement, such as the agency’s services, policies and administration as well

as introducing the students to the personnel of the placement agency officially.

3.4.5 Practicum students are required to submit the Orientation Report with

reference to the guidelines presented in Annex 2 within the first two to four

weeks after the commencement of the placement. This report enables

students to make reflection on their initial understanding of field practicum

from three different roles, namely community, agency/service unit levels and

service user. Students should work on the base of their own observation and

data collection to assess the needs of the target groups, examine existing

service provision and explore any possible service gaps.

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4. Learning Objective

4.1 Students will acquire the necessary social work knowledge, skills, and values

at their Year 1 study to facilitate learning during the field practicum.

4.1.1 Knowledge

Understand how social work has been influenced by its history.

Understand a systems framework for assessment and intervention based on

biological, psychological, psychodynamic, family systems, socio-cultural,

and organizational factors.

Understand the variation of approaches on working with clients.

Develop a conceptualization of social work process characterized by the

person-in-situation perspective, and its application to planned intervention

with client systems.

Be able to conceptualize practice tasks and select intervention focus, and

differentiate the application of social work methods in the context of the

social welfare in Hong Kong and the processes of social service delivery

systems.

Understand agency functions and operations, be able to reflect and

evaluate agency functions in relation to the community context and client

needs.

4.1.2 Values

Understand social work values and principles of ethical professional

conduct based on the code of ethics as issued by the Social Worker

Registration Board (SWRB).

Become aware of and make reasoned judgments on the impact of social

and economic injustice.

Become aware of and make reasoned response on the oppression of

populations at risk.

4.1.3 Skills

Understand the principles and skills of social work practice.

Be able to communicate client needs, dynamics of problems and needed

interventions in written and verbal forms.

Operate in the multiple systems with which clients are involved as

potential targets for change

Present and evaluate prevention as well as the restorative possibilities in

work with individuals and families.

Understand the development of the professional relationship during each

and every phase of social work practice.

4.2 Intended Learning Objectives of Field Practicum I

On completion of the course, students are able to:

a. apply social work theories and value into practice as a beginner social

worker;

b. demonstrate an understanding and commitment to social work values and

ethics through direct practice in a social welfare agency;

c. demonstrate the use of several generalist practice roles at multiple system

levels within the practicum setting;

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d. show evidence of effective use of supervision and use of agency resources

in working with multi-level systems and in assessing personal need for

continued professional development;

e. demonstrate professional growth and development through appropriate

use of supervision provided by the field practicum supervisor and

interactions with other agency staff and outside resources.

4.3 Intended Objectives of Field Practicum II

On completion of the course, students are able to:

a. apply and consolidate the generalist social work theories into practice;

b. demonstrate an understanding and commitment to social work values

and ethics through direct practice;

c. articulate the knowledge and understanding of the human resources and

service network to facilitate appropriate referrals and understand policy

and practice implications within the practicum setting;

d. show evidence of effective use of agency and community resources and

strengths and capacity of clients in dealing with multi-level challenges.

e. demonstrate professional growth and development through appropriate

use of supervision provided by the field practicum supervisor and

interactions with other agency staff and outside resources.

5. Placement Requirements

5.1 Attendance

Students are expected to achieve full attendance at the agencies/units during

the whole field practicum period. They are required to

a. apply for leave of absence in advance by using the Notification on Leave

of Absence (Annex 3) and work out appropriate make-up arrangement on

the field practicum accordingly.

b. keep the weekly record of practicum hours and the respective supervision

time in the Weekly Record of Practicum and Supervision (Annex 4).

c. attend the agencies’ staff meetings, training seminars, and other functions

as far as possible.

5.2 Agreement on Field Practicum Learning Contract

5.2.1 At the beginning of the field practicum, each student has to develop an

individual Learning Contract with the field practicum supervisor. This

contract states the student’s individual learning goals and describes ways to

achieve them. This contract is required to submit to Field Practicum

Coordinator on or before the second week of field practicum. .

5.2.2 Field Practicum I usually is an exploratory experience. Therefore,

assignments are relatively simple and service-oriented that basic social work

skills will be acquired.

5.2.3 During the Field Practicum II, students are expected be able to integrate basic

social work skills, different models and theories learned. At this point, more

complicated assignments will be given with the aim to strengthen students’

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learning by transferring the knowledge to the practical use. In order to enrich

students’ experiences and be trained up as generalist social work practitioners,

they will be deployed to the practice setting different from that of Field

Practicum I.

5.2.4 Assignments are given to the students after orientation meeting with the field

practicum supervisor, students and the agencies. This is expected student

will take up a wide range of social work tasks and where possible, involving

the application of multi-level intervention skills.

5.2.5 The assignments of the students will vary according to different settings of

placement agencies. Students can refer to the Guideline on Workload

Requirement (Annex 6). In normal circumstance, students will take up at

least two social work tasks in the block Field Practicum I and three in

concurrent Field Practicum II. Students should discuss with the field

practicum supervisor to work out details of assignments at the beginning and

record in the Agreement on Field Practicum.

5.2.6 Students are also required to prepare the Field Practicum Log Sheet (Daily /

Weekly) as set out in Annex 7 for field practicum supervisor’s scrutiny.

Besides, recordings, proposals and evaluation reports on casework/ group

work/ mass program should also be written according to the field practicum

supervisor’s requirements. These documents can reflect analytically on the

field work assignments accomplished by the student and provide a basis for

supervision and evaluation of student’s performance.

6. Assessment and Evaluation

6.1 Assignments

Both Field Practicum I and II are credit-bearing courses. Students will be

assessed and rated by the field practicum supervisor which assignments are the

basis for assessing their performance. List of assessments for field practicum

is set out in Annex 8.

6.1.1 Assignments which are directed to the educational goals of the student are

given to the student after the orientation program. Consideration of the

individual characteristics of the student and the special nature of the field work

placement should be given when determining the assignments.

6.1.2 The assignments or selected social work tasks should be congruent with the

students’ stage of progression in the curriculum. The time frame of the

practicum and work load of the placement students should be taken into

consideration.

6.2 Assessment

The purpose of Field Practicum assessment is to measure the extent to which

students have attained the learning objectives set for the practicum. The

assessment instrument designed on criterion-referenced against a set of

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behavioral indicators will be used to evaluate individual student’s

performance.

There are different assessment areas, such as integration of knowledge into

practice, professional practice and service delivery, performance in

professional roles, etc. In each practicum, there will be mid-term evaluation

and final evaluation. The evaluations involve the student and the field

practicum supervisor, and where possible, the view of the placement agency

can also be taken into consideration. A final grade will be given to each

practicum according to the same grading criteria of other taught courses.

Students’ performance in Field Practicum shall be expressed in terms of the

following systems:

Grade Mark Range Interpretation Grade Point Equivalent

F (0-39) Fail 0.00

D 40-44 Fair 1.00

C- 45-50 1.67

C 51-56 Satisfactory 2.00

C+ 57-62 2.33

B- 63-69 Good 2.67

B 70-75 3.00

B+ 76-82 3.33

A- 83-89 Outstanding 3.67

A 90-96 4.00

A+ 97-100 4.33

6.2.1 Mid-term evaluation

Both student and supervisor have to complete the Mid-term Evaluation Report

(Annex 9) in the halfway with the aim to provide feedback to students on their

strengths and limitations in knowledge, skills, and approach to their work and

learning. This evaluation can give students ideas about their performance

and make appropriate improvements. The field practicum supervisor will

also advise students for addressing issues to meet those objectives listed in the

Fieldwork Learning Contract and developing strategies to achieve the

objectives accordingly.

6.2.2 Final Evaluation

A final evaluation session will be held to appraise student’s performance and

consolidate their field learning and professional growth nearly at the end of the

placement. Since the field practicum supervisors will closely monitor and

regulate student’s performance, this final evaluation report (Annex 10) will

likely be within student’s expectations. The final evaluation is treated as a

summary of earlier discussion rather than new discoveries.

6.2.3. Requirements

Students must pass both Field Practicum I and II in order to graduate from the

programme. Also Field Practicum I is the pre-requisite of Field Practicum II,

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students are required to pass Field Practicum I before taking Field Practicum II.

The assessment results of Field Practicum I and II are normally based on the

field practicum supervisor's holistic judgment on the student's performance

throughout the practicum, with or without reference to the agency's feedback.

On quality assurance, a Field Practicum Committee is set up to monitor the

overall standard, fairness and objectivity of Field Practicum assessment and will

investigate any disagreement related to the practicum results. The grading as

recommended by the field practicum supervisor will be examined by the

Committee for final decision.

6.2.4 Self-evaluation

Students are required to write up a Self-Evaluation Report for their Mid-term

and Final Evaluation to reflect on their learning and room for improvement.

6.2.5 Agency Feedback

In order to review the performance of the placement students from another

perspective, the workplace supervisor will be invited to complete the Agency

Feedback Form (Annex 11) at the end of the practicum.

6.3 Supervision

Students will be directly supervised by field practicum supervisors at the two

field practicums. A minimum of 2 hours for Field Practicum I and 1.5 hours

for Field Practicum II per week with face to face supervision will be provided.

The supervision may take the form of individual session, group or a mix of

individual and group sessions, depending on the nature of the work, the need

of students, and the progress of learning that students are going through.

Where possible, the supervision will conduct at least 50% on-site supervison /

placement unit supervision to enable the supervisor’s understanding of the

characteristics and dynamics of the placement agency.

6.3.1 Field practicum supervisors must be currently Registered Social Workers, hold

a degree in social work, and possess at least five years of post-degree practice

experience in social work posts that include direct practice with service users

or work related to social welfare policy and management.

6.4 Data Collection for studying other courses of HD(SW)

Students may require to collect data during field practicum for preparing

assignment for studying courses of HD(SW), such as the final Year Project for

the course of “Social Work Project”, at the same time. This may involve

writing an assessment of a client, an assessment of a group, a community

assessment, a discussion of intervention with a client system, and developing

an evaluation of the progress of a client system or an agency programme.

Confidentiality will be stressed and students are required to consult with the

Field Practicum Supervisors prior to submit these assignments.

7. Social Work Field Practicum Logistics and Administrative Arrangement

7.1 Field Practicum Committee

A Field Practicum Committee will be set up for the following purposes:

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proposing the planning and review of policy related to field practicum;

locating field work opportunities from agencies;

matching students to field work placements;

coordinating field practicum supervisors

organizing field practicum supervisors’ Meeting and pre-placement

workshops;

moderating students’ field practicum workload and final grades;

resolving disagreements between students and field practicum supervisors;

handling appeal cases; and

investigating complaints and misconducts

The committee is composed of the Field Practicum Coordinator as the Chairman,

Programme Leader of HD(SW), teaching staff and other staff members who have

involved in field practicum. The Committee will meet on a regular basis (at least

twice per semester).

7.2 Field Practicum Coordinator

The Field Practicum Coordinator is to co-ordinate students’ field practicum

placement of the programme. All students will meet the Field Practicum

Coordinator at the beginning of the practicum. The job responsibilities of the

Field Practicum Coordinator include the following:

Development and coordination of practicum sites which are in line with

the mission of the HD (SW).

Identification and development of new social work field practicum

agencies for students of the Programmes.

Maintenance of collaborative relationships with all practicum agencies

Evaluation of new and current agencies utilized as the Higher Diploma

social work pavements.

Working with students to ensure suitable matching between students and

field practicum agencies.

Provision of training, orientation, coordination and monitoring to the field

practicum supervisors through scheduling and facilitating meetings in

ADS and/or in agencies as convenient to all participants.

Preparation of the annual field practicum calendar.

Updating and editing the Field Practicum Handbook and related forms.

Collection and maintenance of all student-related field documentation and

evaluations.

Provision of field practicum supervisors with feedback from students and

ADS, related to supervision experiences.

Development of new and revise existing field-related policies and

procedures.

7.3 Field Practicum Supervisor

7.3.1 Field practicum supervisors are assigned instructional responsibilities for

students in field placements. They have to perform dual roles as both

practitioners and teachers, help students bridge the gap between theoretical

concepts and practice realities.

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7.3.2 The field practicum supervisors guide the students to a personal understanding

of the responsibilities, ethics, activities, and challenges of professional social

work practice, as well as providing opportunities for the students to apply the

knowledge and skills related to the field work course objectives.

7.3.3 Field practicum supervisors are required to participate in periodic meetings

with the Field Practicum Coordinator to review student progress and the

effectiveness of the educational purposes of the practicum. Student and agency

feedback and evaluation collected will be shared and discussed during the

meetings.

7.3.4 The field practicum supervisors’ responsibilities include:

Developing specific opportunities that will enable the students to fulfill the

goals of social work practice , bearing in mind that students at the level of

Higher Diploma are expected to have opportunities to work with all levels

of systems, including individuals, families, groups, and organizations.

Orienting the student to the purpose, policies and procedures of the agency.

Orientation should include discussion of issues related to safety, sexual

harassment, and grievance procedures.

Communicating to the agency's expectations of student performance.

Providing on-going performance feedback and participating in periodic

meetings with the Field Practicum Coordinator to review student progress

and the effectiveness of the educational experience.

Coaching the students to take up social work assignments for the

fulfillment of their learning objectives and agency service objectives.

Continuously assessing the students’ work performance in the field,

providing feedback and guidance to enhance their professional competence

and rate their performance based on the final evaluation

Communicating with the student and with the Field Practicum Coordinator

regarding any unusual opportunities, conditions, or concerns.

Fostering a positive, cooperative working relationship between the agency

and the Unit of Associate Degree Studies (ADS) of HKIEd, including

reporting any agency or organizational problems that would affect student

learning.

7.4 Leave and Absence

Students are expected to work on all field practicum days, including school

holidays and class suspension days, except for public holidays.

All applications for leave or change of work schedule should be approved

in writing by the field practicum supervisor in advance.

Over-time work and compensation leave should be approved by both the

field practicum supervisor and the agency according to the administrative

procedures of the agency. No compensation leave can be taken after the

practicum.

In cases of sickness or emergencies, students should inform the field

practicum supervisor as well as the agency as soon as possible. For sick

leave, students should fill in the “Notification of Leave or Absence Form”

(Annex 3) and submit to the ADS General Office with a medical

certificate.

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7.5 Early Termination or Suspension of Practicum

7.5.1 When a practicing student is found to have performed below standard by any

of the concerned parties, the field practicum supervisor should first

communicate with the student and then try to resolve the problem with the

field practicum co-ordinator. If a final mutual agreement or solution can’t be

obtained, the practicum may be terminated, subject to the decision from the

Field Practicum Committee.

7.5.2 If a practicum can’t provide adequate practicing and learning opportunities or

if the student has misbehaved, the student may be suspended from the

placement. To eliminate this possibility, students encountering difficulties are

urged to seek help from the field practicum supervisor, the agency and/or the

field practicum co-ordinator as early as possible before the situation

deteriorates.

7.5.3 Such cases will be investigated by the Field Practicum Committee for

follow-up and remedial measures. If the student decides to appeal his case,

he/she can make the appeal on the Committee’s decision to the Director of

ADS.

7.6 Disposition of Practicum Records

The records (including written and printed copies, audio or visual tapes (Annex

12), computer soft copies, etc.) and clients’ personal details concerning any

service user should be destroyed by students after the final result is confirmed

without dissent. Students can only selectively keep some samples for further

academic analysis or studies. But only records which do not contain any

information leading to the identification of the clients can be kept (e.g. student

can keep the group work proposal without members’ personal information).

7.7 Procedures for handling students’ grievances and appeals

7.7.1 Students’ grievances regarding their field placement

During the field practicum period, students who have grievances in whatever

aspects of their placement are encouraged to seek clarification and

understanding with their respective field practicum supervisors first for

working out the solution. If no satisfactory resolutions can be derived, the

students can approach the field practicum co-ordinator for assistance.

Depending on the nature and complexity of the matter concerned, the field

practicum co-ordinator may or may not forward the case to Field Practicum

Committee for taking appropriate actions. In any case, the Programme

Leader should be notified and involved in solving the grievances.

7.7.2 Appeal against the grades given by field practicum supervisors

A student who is dissatisfied with the recommended grade given for their

performance in field practicum is again encouraged to first discuss with their

field practicum supervisors.

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If no consensus can be reached and the student decides to launch an appeal, he

/ she should follow the following steps:

The student can submit a formal written appeal to the Field Practicum

Coordinator within one week after being informed about the suggested

grade by the field practicum supervisor. Substantial reasons for the

dissatisfaction should be clearly given in the written appeal.

A Field Practicum Committee consisting of the field practicum

co-ordinator, the Programme Leader and at least one other social work

teaching staff will be formed to investigate the appeal case and come up

with a resolution and a final grade. The student concerned and his/her

field practicum supervisor may also be invited to attend the meeting to

provide the needed information and evidence for the Committee’s

consideration. The resolution and the final grade derived from the

Committee meeting should be regarded as final.

8. Student Personal Development

8.1 Rights of Students in Social Work Practicum

Social Work students have the right:

to indicate a general preference for certain client populations and agency

types in planning for practicum However, there is no guarantee that

students can be placed in their most preferred setting;

to request a change in practicum placement when certain difficulties

cannot be resolved by the student, the HD (SW) Field Practicum

Coordinator, field practicum supervisor and the Agency supervisor, and

when the difficulties are not caused by students’ documented inability to

meet the demands of the practicum;

to assess the overall field practicum experience provided by the agency by

completing an evaluation of the practicum site at the end of the academic

year (Annex 13 & 14);

to privacy, not to have personal and academic information released orally

to any party without the students’ consent;

to receive reasonably prompt feedback on assignments; to be alerted in a

timely and formal fashion about serious problems in performance in

courses and in the practicum, and to be informed of what is needed to

correct or change or improve, the timeline and the consequences;

to participate in curriculum development and revision by providing

feedback directly to the Unit of Associate Degree Studies (ADS),

Programme Leader, or any authorized party.

8.2 Responsibilities of Student in Social Work Practicum

Social Work Students are expected to:

Attend the field practicum as scheduled for the required hours and the days

agreed upon between student and field practicum supervisor, in

consultation with the Field Practicum Coordinator;

Complete the minimum requirement of field hours as specified by the

programme;

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Notify the field practicum supervisor if they are unable to be at the agency

on any scheduled day meet with the field practicum supervisor weekly for

a minimum of face-to-face supervision (2 hours for Field Practicum I and

1.5 hours for Field Practicum II), and take an active role in the supervision

process;

Provide the field practicum supervisor with recordings as required.

Complete timesheets, weekly reports each week and submit to the field

practicum supervisor as required;

Share responsibility with the field practicum supervisor in preparing a

Fieldwork Learning Contract

Discuss any difficulties regarding the field practicum experience, first with

the field practicum supervisor, and, if necessary, with the Field Practicum

Coordinator;

Actively take part in self-evaluation throughout the year, including a

written self-evaluation at the end of each practicum;

Complete all the required field evaluation forms at the end of the

field-practicum.

8.3 Professional Code of Practice

Students are required to observe the Code of Practice for Registered Social

Worker promulgated by the Hong Kong Social Workers Registration Board as

set out in Annex 15. Students who violate this code or commit unlawful or

unethical deed during their practicum will have their casesbrought to the Field

Practicum Committee for investigation and consideration of possible actions.

8.4 Student Self-Evaluation

Students are required to conduct continuous self-evaluation throughout the

practicum. At the end of the practicum, students will submit a self-evaluation

report (Annex 9 refers) to their field practicum supervisors. This report,

together with the field practicum supervisors’ final report (Annex 10 refers),

will be submitted to the field practicum co-ordinator.

8.5 Guidance and Counselling Students should seek field practicum supervisors’ guidance related to their

practicum difficulty at any time. However, if they encounter any psycho-social

or personal adjustment problems during the practicum, which may result in

being labeled as a “weak” or “incapable” social worker, they should approach

the field practicum co-ordinator or the Counsellors from Students Affairs

Office (SAO) of HKIEd for professional assistance.

17


Appendices

18



Programme curriculum

Year 1 Credit Points

Semester One Academic Studies

Introduction to Social Work 3

Social Work Theories & Practice I 3

Introduction to Psychology 3

General Studies

English I 3

Chinese Writing Skills 3

Personal and Interpersonal Development 3

Year 1

Semester Two Academic Studies

Introduction to Sociology

Human Behavior and Social Environment

Social Work Theories & Practice II

3

3

3

Professional Studies

Social Work Field Laboratory (42 hours) 3

General Studies

English II 3

Hong Kong Studies

Advanced Chinese Writing Skills or

Putonghua Daily Conversation

3

3

Total 39

Annex 1

19



Programme curriculum

Year 2 Credit Points

Summer Professional Studies

Social Work Training Camp and Agency Visit

(58 hours)

Field Practicum I 1(300 hours) 6

Semester

Three

Academic Studies

Social Welfare and Social Policies 3

Open Elective 3

Open Elective 3


Social Work Project (Year course)

Field Practicum II2 (total 400 hours)

General Studies

Introduction to Quantitative Methods or

Creativity & Critical Thinking through Aesthetic

Studies

3

Year 2

Semester

Four

Academic Studies

Social Administration and Management 3

Open Elective 3

Open Elective 3


Social Work Project (Year course) 3

Field Practicum II2 8

General Studies

Communication and Presentation Skills

3

Total 41

1 Field Practicum I is in the mode of block placement, which lasts for 8 weeks from June to August.

2 Field Practicum II is in the mode of concurrent placement, which lasts for 7 months from October to May.

20



Orientation Report

Orientation Report enables students to acquire an initial understanding of three different

components of Field Practicum. (community level, agency and service unit level, service users

level). Students should examine and reflect on their observation and data collected in the

learning process, assess the needs of the target groups, examine the service provision and

explore the service gaps where possible.

The report should be submitted within the first two to four weeks after the commencement of

the Block Placement and Concurrent Placement respectively.

I. About the Community

1. General characteristics of the Community, such as demographic data and population profile

2. Organizations within the community

3. Specific problems and resources

4. Reflection and opinions

II. About the Service

1. Policies that relate to / governing the service

2. The characteristics of the service

3. The strengths and weaknesses of the service

III. About the Agency

1. Background of the Agency

2. Service provision of the service unit in which the student is placed

3. Strengths and weaknesses of the service unit e.g. location, services, staff morale and

attitude


IV. About the Service Users

1. Characteristics, needs and problem encountered

2. Suitability of the services provided by the service unit

3. The relationship between service unit and the service receivers


V. Conclusion and Overall Impression

Annex 2

21



Notification of Leave of Absence

This form should be submitted to the Field Practicum Coordinator within one week after

the absence or leave

Section One (to be completed by student)

Student Name: Field Practicum: I (Block) / II (Concurrent)*

Agency Name:

Field Practicum Supervisor:

Field Practicum Period: From (date) to (date)

Application Details:

1. Period of leave applied: from ________________to ________________________

2. Reason(s) for application:

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Student’s signature:_______________________ Date:____________________________

Section Two (to be completed by Field Practicum Supervisor)

1. Application is approved / not approved*.

2. The Agency is informed/ not informed* of the absence.

3. Medical Certificate is attached / not attached*.

Supervisor’s signature:_______________________

Date:____________________________

Section Three (office use ONLY)

Handled by:____________________________ Date:___________________________

Remarks:_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________ *Delete wherever inapplicable

Annex 3

22



Student Field Practicum Timetable and Supervision Record

(to be completed by the student the week after)


Agency Name:


Field Practicum Period: from (date) to (date)

Week ___ from ________________ _(date) to____________________(date)

Write down student duties/tasks/supervision hours in the specific timeslot below:

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat

am

pm

evening

overnight

Field Practicum hours carried over: __________

Total Field Practicum hours this week: __________

Accumulative Field Practicum hours:___________

Supervision hours carried over: Individual: ________ Group: __________ Total:________

Supervision hours this week: Individual: _________Group:__________ Total:________

Accumulative Supervision Hours:

Individual:______________Group:_____________Total:________________

Signature of Student:________________ Signature of Supervisor:________________

Date:________________ Date:___________________

Annex 4

23



Student Fieldwork Learning Contract This form should be completed at the early stage of field practicum after the nature of service has been

clarified


Agency Name/Service Unit:


Field Practicum Period: From (date) to (date) *Delete wherever inapplicable

Content of the Learning Contract

I. Learning Objectives

1. What the student wants to learn in the placement.

2. What kind of theories or theoretical concepts the student wants to apply or test

II. Personal Development

1. Personal strengths that can be utilized in the placement

2. Personal weaknesses that may obstruct learning and the plan to overcome those weaknesses

III. Professional Development

1. Ideas for professional development

IV. Field Practicum assignments

1. Nature of task, target group, methods/approaches to be used

2. Number of written assignments and the dates of submission

3. Special requirement (if any)

V. Supervision

1. Duration, Frequency, Format, Venue

2. Student’s roles in supervision

3. Supervisor’s roles in supervisor

VI. Evaluation

1. Arrangements for mid-term and final evaluation (e.g. tentative schedule, format etc.)

2. Evaluation criteria

Annex 5

24



Guidelines on Workload Requirement

Nature of Assignment /

Type of placement

Block placement

(300 hrs)

Concurrent placement

(400 hrs)

Case only 2-3 active cases

3-4 active cases

Case and group 1-2 active cases and 1 group

2-3 active cases and 1 group

Case and community work 1-2 active cases and 1

project/issue

2-3 active cases and 1

project/issue

Case, group and community

work

1 case, 1 group and 1 mass

programme

1-2 cases, 1 group and 1

mass programme

Group only 1 group and 1 project,

1 mass programme

(optional)

1 group, 1 project and 1

mass programme

2 groups, 1 mass programme

(optional)

2 groups and 1 mass

programme

Group and community work 1 issue and 1 group 1 issue (as principal worker)

and 1 group

Community work only 2 issues (one issue as

principal worker)

2 issues (as principal

worker)

Remarks: in addition to the above requirements, students are expected to be involved in the

daily operation of the agency, attend meetings and assist in the delivery of services.

Annex 6

25


Assignments

Nature of Assignment Workload Language

Basic assignments to all students Learning Contract

English or Chinese

Orientation Report

English or Chinese

Daily/weekly Logs*

English or Chinese

Student Self-Evaluation

Forms

English

Field Practicum Final

Evaluation Form

English

Case work

(minimum 5 sessions of each

case)

Case intake report

English or Chinese #

One Process Recording

(15-20 minutes)


Summary Recordings


Case Transferal Summery /

Termination Report

English or Chinese

Group work

(minimum 5 sessions of each

group)

Group Proposal English or Chinese #

Session Plans

English or Chinese

One Group Process

Recording (15-20 minutes)


Group Summary

Recordings


Group Evaluation Report

English or Chinese

Mass Programme/Project/Issue Proposal


Evaluation Report

English or Chinese

# Remark: Any two of them must be written in ENGLISH.

*Remark: Discretion is given by the field practicum supervisors.

26



Field Practicum Log Sheet


Agency Name:


Field Practicum Period: From (date) to (date) (*Delete wherever inapplicable)

Date Activities and self-reflection

Field practicum

supervisor’s comments

Annex 7

27



Checklist of Assignment on Field Practicum


Agency Name:


Field Practicum Period: From (date) to (date) (*Delete wherever inapplicable)

Students should submit all of the assignments to their field practicum supervisor in 2 weeks after the

placement. Grade will be deducted for late submission. Please return this checklist together with all

written assignments to Higher Diploma in Social Work Programme Team, ADS General Office, TKOSC,

HKIEd:

Item Workload Date of

Submission

(Block

Placement)

Date of

Submission

(Concurrent

Placement)

Language Yes

() /

NO

()

Number

of Item

Basic assignments to all students

1 Learning Contract The 2nd

week of the

placement

The 3rd

week

of the

placement

English /

Chinese

2 Orientation Report English /

Chinese

3 Daily/weekly Log* Daily log

should be

submitted for

first 2 weeks

Daily log

should be

submitted for

first 5 weeks

English /

Chinese

4 Student Self-Evaluation

Form

The 4th and

8th week of

the

placement

The 13th and

25th week of

the

placement

English

5 Field Practicum Final

Evaluation Form

The 8th

week of the

placement

The 25th

week of the

placement

English

6 Student Field Practicum

Timetable and Supervision

Record

Every

weekend

Every

weekend

English /

Chinese

Case work

7 Case Intake Report English /

Chinese #

8 Process Recording (15-20

minutes)

English /

Chinese #

9 Summary Recording One week

after the

interview

One week

after the

interview

English /

Chinese #

10 Case Transferal Summery /

Termination Report

English /

Chinese

Annex 8

28


Item Workload Date of

Submission

(Block

Placement)

Date of

Submission

(Concurrent

Placement)

Language Yes

() /

NO

()

Number

of Item

Group work

11 Group Proposal English /

Chinese #

12 Session Plan English /

Chinese

13 Group Process Recording

(15-20 minutes)

English /

Chinese #

14 Group Summary Recording One week

after the

session

One week

after the

session

English /

Chinese #

15 Group Evaluation Report English /

Chinese

Mass Programme/Project/Issue

16 Proposal English /

Chinese #

17 Evaluation Report English or

Chinese

Others (if

necessary)

Student Feedback Form on

Agency and Supervision

English /

Chinese

Agency Feedback Form on

Student Performance

English /

Chinese

Student Feedback Form on

Field Practicum

English /

Chinese

TOTAL:

# Remark: Any two of them must be written in ENGLISH.

*Remark: Discretion is given by the field practicum supervisors.

29



Student Self-Evaluation Form (Interim / End of Practicum)


Agency Name:


Field Practicum Period: From (date) to (date) (*Delete

wherever inapplicable)

Self-Evaluation: 1. My learning objectives in the practicum:

2. My achievement and learning outcome in this practicum :

3. Special circumstances, if any, which contribute or impede my learning in this practicum:

4. My strength identified during the practicum:

5. My weakness identified during the practicum:

6. Areas for improvement and my potential to be developed as a social worker:

7. My comments on the practicum learning opportunities and outcomes:

8. Other comments:

9. Supervisor’s comments:

(Discussion has been made on this Self-Evaluation Report with my field practicum supervisor.)

Signature of Student: Date:

Signature of Supervisor: Date:

Annex 9

30



Field Practicum Evaluation Report

Student Name: Field

Practicum:

I (Block) / II (Concurrent)*

Agency Name:

Placement Address:


Field Practicum

Period:

From

to

Number of days absent (if any):

Reasons:

Total number of practicum hours taken:

Total number of supervision hours:

Individual:

Group:

(*Delete wherever inapplicable)

Part I:

Brief description of the agency and its services:

Field Practicum assignments (Nature of assignment and quantity):

Annex 10

31


Part II:

(1) Student’s Performance in the Placement Setting (Overall 20%) 1.1 Understanding of the agency (30%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Shows understanding of the agency policies, objectives, functions, structures, funding

and its existing services as a whole

- Has the ability to evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of services

- Others, please specify: _________________________________________________

1.2 Understanding of the service users (30%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Knows the characteristics of the clientele being served by the agency

- Able to recognize the bio-socio-psycho-cultural factors which contribute to the problems

and needs of that particular clientele

- Comprehends the general approach adopted by the agency in serving its service users


1.3 Involvement in the agency (40%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Shows adaptability in the working environment in general

- Establishes positive working relationships with both staff body and clients

- Attends to the agency procedure and meets with administrative requirements


Section (1) Grade: _____ Mark: _____

Comments to substantiate grading on “Student’s performance in the placement setting”:

(2) Personal Attributes (Overall 30%) 2.1 Personal attitude (40%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Shows sense of responsibility

- Demonstrates commitment in adopting a positive attitude in the learning process

- Is courteous

- Takes initiative in developing and implementing own learning schedule

- Is aware of own biases and deals with them appropriately


32


2.2 Personal effectiveness (60%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Displays maturity in interpersonal relationship

- Demonstrates ability to prioritize tasks and goal setting

- Demonstrates ability to manage time effectively

- Shows confidence and readiness to function independently

- Shows perseverance when faced with difficulties, frustrations and resistance

- Has ability to express feelings and viewpoints in a socially approved manner

- Shows ability to accept differences and diversities

- Communicates effectively with all levels of agency staff



Comments to substantiate grading on “Personal attributes”:

(3) Professional Attributes (Overall 50%) 3.1 Professional attitude (25%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Shows commitment to expand knowledge base in social work practice

- Recognizes personal changes needed in order to work effectively as a professional social

worker

- Identifies and attempts to overcome those attitudes which may impede professional

growth through reflection

- Understands professional roles and boundaries


3.2 Value (25%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Recognizes basic principles which underlie the cornerstone of social work practice

- Complies vigilantly with the Code of Practice issued by the Hong Kong Social Workers

Registration Board

- Shows willingness to scrutinize own values in light of professional expectations

- Values the worth and dignity of client systems regardless of their ethnic background,

sex, religion, social status and etc.

- Recognizes empowerment in the client system as an important process in the course of

social intervention

- Shows convictions in the clients ‘capacities for change and respect their choices for

change

- Demonstrates eagerness to nurture a sense of identity with the social work profession in

particular its values and ethics for practice


33


3.3 Professional competence (50%) Grade: _____

Mark:_____

3.3.1 Knowledge base (20%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Draws on a wide social science knowledge to describe and assess social problems and

human behavior

- Initiates attempts to identify appropriate theories/treatment models and spell out the

rationale in choosing them for field practice under supervisory guidance

- Ability to conceptualize theories and put them into practice

- Possesses knowledge on agency and community resources


3.3.2 Practice skills (35%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Purposefully gathers relevant data needed for assessments and interventions

- Shows ability to sort, categorize, and analyze data in order to understand individual

needs and problems of the client system

- Evaluates the client’s strengths and weaknesses and those factors that hinder progress

while assessing the capacity for change

- Sets priorities and identifies clear and achievable objectives for intervention

- Involves client in goal setting and choice of intervention and develops a working

agreement for monitor sake

- Is able to determine the most feasible and effective level of intervention (micro to macro

level) by selecting specific approaches matched to client's situation, needs and available

resources

- Has ability to help clients evaluate progress toward agreed-upon goals

- Terminates helping relationships appropriately

- Recommends further actions constructively to the client and parties concerned to sustain

changes


3.3.3 Relationship building and communication skills (20%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Has ability to develop a satisfactory relationship with the client system and related

persons

- Demonstrates use of professional relationship to induce change in the client system

- Has ability to practice active listening, detect underlying messages and non-verbal

behavior indicators to indicate the receiving of client’s message

- Responds appropriately with empathy, sensitivity, support and understanding to the

feeling and situation of the client system

- Facilitates client’s expression by using questioning, clarification, reflection of feeling

and etc

- Is aware of personal and client’s feelings in the intervention process, recognizing such

impact on the working relationship and be able to handle them constructively


34


3.3.4 Writing and presentation skills (15%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Shows clarity of purpose and rationale in writing recordings/reports

- Demonstrates coherence of presentation and logic of organization

- Has preciseness and conciseness of written expression

- Can use social work terminology appropriately in written assignments

- Demonstrates mastery of language in Chinese writing

- Demonstrates mastery of language in English writing


3.3.5 Use of supervision (10%) Grade: _____ Mark:_____

- Preparation for supervisory sessions

- Consolidates and follows through what has been learned in supervision

- Is open and receptive to advice and suggestions



Comments to substantiate grading on “Professional attributes”:

Overall (recommended) grade and mark

Grade: _____ Mark: _____

Part III:

Concluding Remarks:

Student’s major strengths:

Areas for improvement:

35


Overall comment (if any):

Signed and written by:

___________________________________

Signed and read by:

____________________________________

Date:

___________________________________

Date:

____________________________________

Grading Reference

Grade Mark Range Interpretation Grade Point Equivalent

F 0-39 Fail 0.00

D 40-44 Fair 1.00

C- 45-50 1.67

C 51-56 Satisfactory 2.00

C+ 57-62 2.33

B- 63-69 Good 2.67

B 70-75 3.00

B+ 76-82 3.33

A- 83-89 Outstanding 3.67

A 90-96 4.00

A+ 97-100 4.33

36



Agency Feedback Form on Student Performance

(This Form is to be completed by a staff who worked closely with the student during the placement)


Agency Name:

Field Practicum Supervisor: Field

Practicum Period: From (date) to (date) (*Delete wherever

inapplicable)

Administrative Performance Outstanding Good Satisfactory Fair Fail

Handle of financial matters

Handover/ referral of cases/ projects

Submission of reports/ recordings

Care of agency property or facilities

Return of stationery/ materials/ documents

borrowed

Unfinished business (if any):

Work Ethics Outstanding Good Satisfactory Fair Fail

Punctuality

Honesty

Courtesy

Comply with agency rules & procedures

Respect agency philosophy or culture

Other comments (if any):

Professional Practice and Competence Outstanding Good Satisfactory Fair Fail

Confidentiality

Decent code of behaviour

Working relationship

Competence in meeting service requirements

Personal professional development

Other comments (if any):

Filled by: Position:

Signature: Date: _

Annex 11

37



Photo-taking/ Video or Audio Taping: Client Consent Form

Details of photo-taking/video/audio taping

Date:_____________Time:_____________to________________Venue:___________

1. The purpose# of taping and its usage in field training has been clearly explained

by______________(name).

2. I / We understand that the photo(s)/tape(s) will not be used for any other purpose without

our further written consent.

3. I / We request/do not request to view/listen to the photo(s)/tape(s).

4.

Service User’s Name(s) Signature Date

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

Remark: #

1. To help social work students reflect, review and learn from the details of the process of

service delivery.

2. To allow field practicum supervisor to examine in detail how the student provides service.

3. To allow members of the Higher Diploma in Social Work Programme Team to monitor the

performance of the student for the purpose of moderation of grades if necessary.

4. Other specific purpose: (specify:______________________)

Annex 12

38


社會工作高級文憑

實習攝影/錄影/錄音：服務使用者同意書

有關攝影/錄影/錄音詳情

日期：________________時間：____:_____至_____:______

地點：___________________________________

1. _______________ (姓名)已向我/我們清楚解釋攝影/錄影/錄音的用途及目的#。

2. 我 / 我們明白，除獲本人/我們書面同意外，此相片/錄音帶/錄影帶將不會使用於其他

用途。

3. 我 / 我們要求/不要求觀看/收聽此相片/錄音帶/錄影帶。

服務使用者姓名簽名日期

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

註解#

1. 讓社工學生反省及回顧推行服務過程的細節。

2. 讓實習導師仔細了解社工學生提供服務的過程，以便提供適當的指導。

3. 如有需要，香港教育學院副學士部社會工作高級文憑課程教職員會查看相片/錄音帶/

錄影帶，以瞭解學生提供服務的過程及調整分數。

4. 其他特定用途：(註明:___________________________________ )

39



Student Feedback Form on Agency and Supervision


Agency Name:




This questionnaire is designed to facilitate communication between students and Field Practicum

Coordinator on achieving the learning outcomes of field practicum. Students are always encouraged to

share their views with their supervisor during the practicum period. This form will be used as a means to

increase mutual understanding and expectation. A final answered questionnaire should be returned to the

Field Practicum Coordinator at the end of the practicum.

Evaluation on the Host Agency Strongly

Disagree Agree Neutral Agree

Strongly

Agree

The agency gave clear and consistent

guidelines on its administrative procedures,

rules and regulation

The agency provided a sufficient and real-life

setting for me to learn

The agency provided appropriate learning

opportunities

The agency provided additional learning

opportunities e.g. staff meeting, in-house

training etc.

The agency staff were supportive and helpful

The working environment conveyed a spirit

of commitment to social work professional

values

The practices in agency strengthened my

self-confidence and commitment to social

work service

Overall, this agency is recommended for the

future Field Practicum practicum of our

programme

Evaluation on the Field Supervision Strongly


Strongly

Agree

Field Practicum Supervisor’s expectations

and requirements were clear and explicit.

Field Practicum Supervisor provided

adequate and regular supervision

Annex 13

40


Evaluation on the Field Supervision Strongly


Strongly

Agree

Field Practicum Supervisor gave clear

direction and guidance in integration of

knowledge and practice.

Field Practicum Supervisor facilitated my

professional development

Field Practicum Supervisor facilitated my

personal growth and development

Field Practicum Supervisor provided me

prompt response and feedback

Field Practicum Supervisor give adequate

support and encouragement to me

Field Practicum Supervisor liaised with

agency staff effectively to maximize my

learning opportunity

Overall, I am satisfied with my Field

Practicum Supervisor’s guidance and

supervision

Difficulties encountered which hinder your learning in this practicum:

Areas that could be improved to facilitate the supervision:

Overall Comments / Feedback:


41



Student Feedback Form on Field Practicum

Students can use this form to channel their complaints, grievances, concerns, and opinions throughout

their field practicum. This form should be submitted to the Field Practicum Coordinator who will

examine the concerned issue and take appropriate response. However, all your views should be

supported with evidence.

To: Field Practicum Committee via Field Practicum Coordinator


Agency Name:




1 The following is my *complaint/grievance/concern/suggestion on field practicum:

Suggestion(s):


<For Office Use Only> Date received:

Action taken / Final outcome:

Signature of Field Practicum Coordinator: Date:

Annex 14

42


Social Workers Registration Board

Code of Practice

PREAMBLE In accordance with Section 10 of the Social Workers Registration Ordinance (Chapter 505), the Social Workers Registration Board approves and issues this Code of Practice for Registered Social Workers "for the purpose of providing practical guidance in respect of the professional conduct of registered social workers (including ethical matters relating to such conduct)". The primary objective of the Code of Practice is for the protection of clients

(1) and the members of society

at large. To enhance public trust and confidence in the social work profession, the issue of a code of practice is essential. This document serves as a guide to the everyday conduct of social workers. Under section 11 of Social workers Registration Ordinance, this Code of Practice will be used as a basis for adjudication when the conduct of a social worker is alleged to have violated the standards specified in this document. It represents standards of ethical behaviour for social workers in professional relationships with clients, with colleagues, with agency, with profession, and with society as a whole. It is applicable to any professional conduct of social workers. Social workers are required to cooperate in the implementation of this Code of Practice and abide by any disciplinary rulings based on it. They should also keep abreast of the laws of Hong Kong which may be amended from time to time. Social workers should take adequate and appropriate measures and action to prevent, discourage, correct, or expose the unethical conduct of other social workers. They should also take reasonable and appropriate measures to monitor all staff under their supervision and other persons assisting them in delivering service not to violate the Code of Practice or jeopardize the interest of clients

(2).

PART 1 – BASIC VALUES AND BELIEFS 1. Social workers' primary mission is to help people in need and to strive to address social

problems. 2. Social workers respect the unique value and dignity of every human being irrespective of one's

ethnicity, colour, family/social/national origin, nationality, culture, birth, sex, age, language, beliefs, political and other opinion, family/social/economic status, disability, educational attainment, contribution to society, or sexual orientation.

3. Social workers believe that individuals have the potential to develop and thus accepts a responsibility to encourage and facilitate the self-realization of individuals with due regard to the interest of others.

4. Social workers accept responsibility to advance social justice and to safeguard the cause of human rights.

5. Social workers believe that each society, regardless of its form, should provide maximum benefits to its members.

6. Social workers accept responsibility to update, upgrade and devote their professional knowledge and skills to the betterment of individuals and society, with the aim to empower people to act on their own behalves as far as possible.

7. Social workers recognise the central importance of human relationships and seek to strengthen relationships among people in a purposeful effort to promote, maintain and enhance the well-being of individuals, families, social groups, organizations and communities for the prevention and relief of hardship and suffering.

Annex 15

43


PART 2 – PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES Related to Clients Responsibility

1. Social workers have a primary responsibility to the clients.

Cultural Awareness 2. Social workers should recognise the ethnic and cultural diversity of the communities being

served. 3. Social workers should be acquainted with and sensitive to the cultures of clients and appreciate

the differences among them in respect of their ethnicity, national origin, nationality, religion and custom.

Informed Decision and Self-determination 4. Social workers acknowledge a responsibility to inform clients of their rights and help them to

obtain appropriate services. Clients should also be informed of, as far as possible, obligations and possible consequences associated with services provided to them.

5. Social workers should clearly inform clients, who are using services under compulsion, of their rights as well as the limits of their rights and assist them in attaining as much autonomy as possible.

6. Taking into account the limit of clients' rights to self-determination, social workers should encourage clients to participate as far as possible in decision-making about the goals, alternatives and services available to them.

Use of Information and Principles of Confidentiality 7. Social workers should respect clients' right to privacy and confidentiality of their information,

subject to other statutory requirements including, in particular the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (Cap.486). They should also, as far as possible, fully inform clients of the limits of confidentiality in a given situation, the purpose for which information is obtained, and how it may be used.

8. In disclosing case materials, social workers should make necessary and responsible efforts to remove all identifying information and to seek consent, as far as possible, from the client and the relevant agency.

9. Social workers should take precautions to ensure and maintain the confidentiality of information transmitted to other parties through the use of electronic media. Disclosure of identifying information should be avoided whenever possible.

10. Social workers should inform clients of the limitation and risks associated with such services provided via electronic media.

11. Social workers should not discuss confidential information in any setting unless privacy can be ensured.

12. Social workers should protect the confidentiality of clients during legal proceedings to the extent permitted by law.

Conflicts of Interest 13. Social workers should not abuse the worker-client relationship in pursuit of personal interests.

Sexual Relationship

14. Social workers should under no circumstances be engaged in any sexual activities or sexual contacts with clients, whether such activities or contacts are consensual or forced.

15. Social workers should not provide clinical services to individuals with whom they have had a prior sexual relationship.

Continuation of Service 16. If and when a fee for service is required, social workers should ensure that clients would not be

denied timely services they need because of financial constraints.

Billing Practice 17. Social workers should establish and maintain billing practices that accurately reflect the nature

and extent of services provided. Those being engaged in private or independent practice should also enable such billing practices to identify who has provided the service in the practice setting.

18. Social workers should clearly inform clients of all fee rates and charges before services are delivered.

44


Related to Colleagues Respect

19. Social workers should pay due respect to different opinions and practices of other social workers, other professionals and volunteers. Any suggestion or criticism should be expressed and conflicts resolved in a responsible manner.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

20. Social workers should discharge duties and treat co-workers, irrespective of which organizations they are from, in a fair and professional manner.

21. Social workers should collaborate as far as possible with other social workers and colleagues from other disciplines to enhance service effectiveness.

22. Social workers who are members of an interdisciplinary team should participate in and contribute to decisions that affect the well-being of clients by drawing on the perspectives, values, and experiences of the social work profession. They should induce and help the interdisciplinary team as far as possible to clearly define the professional and ethical obligations of the team as a whole and of individual team-members.

23. Social workers on whom a team decision raises ethical concerns should attempt to resolve the disagreement through appropriate channels. If the disagreement cannot be resolved, social workers should pursue other appropriate avenues to address their concerns consistent with

clients』 well-being.

Supervision and Training

24. Social workers, who provide supervision or professional consultation, should possess and maintain necessary knowledge, skills and methodology through appropriate education, training, consultation and research to facilitate them to perform the tasks in professional supervision and training competently. Social workers should provide training or instructions only within their areas of knowledge or competence.

25. Social workers who provide supervision should recognise a supervisor's educational, supportive, developmental and work-focused role and should not abuse the professional relationship with supervisees for any interests.

26. Social workers who provide supervision should monitor their supervisees to act in accordance with this Code of Practice.

Consultation 27. Social workers should seek the advice and counsel from colleagues whenever such consultation

is in the best interests of clients. 28. Social workers should seek consultation only from colleagues who have demonstrated

knowledge, expertise, and competence related to the subject of the consultation. 29. Social workers, for the purpose of consulting with colleagues about clients, should provide

information on clients on a need-to-know basis.

Clients' Right of Choice

30. Social workers respect clients』 right of choice. With due respect to other agencies and

colleagues, they should not solicit the clients of other social workers.

Communications between Co-workers 31. Without the explicit permission of the author of the communications between co-workers, social

workers should not convey to clients any contents of such communications that are beyond the

scope of the clients』 personal particulars.

Sexual Relationship

32. Social workers who function as supervisors or educators should not be engaged in any sexual activities or sexual contacts with supervisees, students, or trainees over whom social workers exercises professional authority.

45


Related to Agency

33. Social workers should be responsible to the employing agency for the efficient and effective performance of professional duties.

34. Social workers should act constructively and responsibly to influence and to improve policies, procedures, and practice of their employing agencies in order to continuously improve the quality of service and to prevent social workers from violating this Code of Practice when enforcing agency policies.

35. Social workers should make clear in any public statements or when undertaking public activities whether they are acting in a personal capacity or on behalf of a group or an organization.

36. Social workers should not use institutional affiliation to recruit clients for private practice without the consent of the institution.

Related to Profession Professional Responsibilities

37. Social workers should maintain honesty, integrity and responsibility in professional practice. 38. Social workers should uphold the values and ethics, and advance the knowledge of the

profession. 39. Social workers should bring to the attention of appropriate bodies any violation of this Code of

Practice that may put the interests of clients at risk, and should be ready to defend other social workers against unjust accusations.

Competence 40. Social workers should provide services and represent themselves as competent only within the

boundaries of their education, training, license, certification, professional consultation, supervised experience, or other relevant professional experience.

41. Social workers should provide services in substantive areas or use intervention techniques or approaches that are new to them only after being engaged in appropriate studies, training, professional consultation, and supervision by people who are competent in those interventions or techniques.

42. When generally recognised standards do not exist with respect to an emerging area of practice, social workers should exercise careful judgment and take responsible steps, including appropriate education, research, training, professional consultation, and supervision, to ensure the competence in their work and to protect clients from harm.

Respect 43. In criticizing the profession, social workers should do so in a responsible and constructive

manner.

Representation 44. Social workers should make no misrepresentation or false claim as to personal particulars,

professional qualifications, credentials, education, competence, nature of service, and method of service or results to be achieved.

Independent Practice 45. Social workers who are engaged in private or independent practice should practise only within

their areas of competence and offer suitable referrals when clients』 needs go beyond their areas

of competence. Any publicity on their practice should be made based on the actual qualifications, experience and expertise.

Professional Development 46. Social workers should accept responsibility for upgrading their professional skills and knowledge. 47. Social workers should take responsibility to help those who are entering the profession to

establish, strengthen and develop their ethics, values, skills and knowledge.

Call to Duty 48. Social workers should respond to calls to duty

(3) when an explicit request is made and when a call

is made specifically for social workers on the spot to render certain service under specific circumstances.

46


Related to Society

49. Social workers recognise the need to bring to the attention of policy makers or the general public any policies, procedures or activities of governments, societies or agencies which create, contribute to, or militate against the relief of hardship and suffering.

50. Social workers recognise the need to advocate changes in the formulation of policies and legislation to improve social conditions, to promote social justice and general welfare of the society. Social workers also recognise the need to contribute to the implementation of policies for human welfare and should not allow one's knowledge, skills or experience to be used to further unjust policies or inhuman practices.

51. Social workers recognise the need to prevent and eliminate discrimination, and the need to strive for a more reasonable distribution of resources and to ensure that all persons should have equal opportunity to access to the necessary resources and services.

52. Social workers recognise the need to promote conditions that encourage respect for diversity of cultures in the society.

53. Social workers recognise the need to encourage informed participation by the public in formulating and developing social policies and institutions.

Notes

1. "Clients" refers to direct service recipients currently receiving individual, group services or programme activities provided by social workers.

2. "Interest of clients" – Social workers should make professional judgement after considering and striking a balance among the interests of clients and those of other related bodies (including family members, agency, community and society, etc.).

3. "Call to duty" in this context is not applicable to calls made through mass media to social workers at large. (Remark: Chinese version prevails over English version if there is any discrepancy.) First gazetted on 16 October 1998 Amended on 15 January 2010 Part 2 Paragraph 7 amended on 15 November 2013

47


社會工作者註冊局

社會工作者的專業守則

前言

根據《社會工作者註冊條例》（第五零五章）第十條，「為了就註冊社會工作者的專業操守（包

括關乎該等操守的道德事宜）提供實務指引」，社會工作者註冊局批准及發出此《社會工作者工

作守則》。

制訂《工作守則》的主要目的是為保障服務對象註一及社會人士。為加強社會人士對社工專業的

信任和信心，制訂工作守則實屬必要。

這份文件是註冊社會工作者（以下簡稱社工）日常操守的指引。根據《社會工作者註冊條例》第

十一條，當社工被指控其操守違反本文件內所列明的專業標準時，註冊局將以此《工作守則》作

為裁決的依據。這份文件列明社工與其服務對象、同工、所屬機構、專業及社會建立專業關係時

的道德行為標準。它適用於社工的任何專業行為。

社工須協力推行此《工作守則》，並遵從依據這些守則作出的所有紀律判決，亦應與時並進，緊

貼可能不時修訂的香港法律。此外，社工應採取足夠的措施或行動去預防、勸阻、糾正或揭發其

他社工違反《工作守則》的行為。社工也應採取合理和適當的措施，監察其轄下的所有員工及協

助社工提供服務的其他人士不會因牴觸《工作守則》而引致服務對象的利益註二受損。

第一部分－基本價值觀及信念

1. 社工的首要使命為協助有需要的人士及致力處理社會問題。

2. 社工尊重每一個人的獨特價值和尊嚴，並不因個人的族裔、膚色、家庭/ 社會/國家本源、

國籍、文化、出生、性別、年齡、語言、信仰、政治或其他主張、家庭/社會/經濟地位、殘

疾、教育程度、對社會的貢獻或性傾向而有所分別。

3. 社工相信每一個人都有發展的潛質，因而有責任鼓勵及協助個人在顧及他人權益的情況下實

現自我。

4. 社工有責任維護人權及促進社會公義。

5. 社工相信任何社會都應為其公民謀取最大的福祉。

6. 社工有責任更新、提升及運用本身的專業知識和技能去推動個人和社會的進步，務求每一個

人都能盡量發揮自己的所能。

7. 社工認同人際關係的重要性，會盡力加強人際關係，務求維持、促進及提高個人、家庭、社

團、機構、社群的福祉，幫助社會大眾預防及減少困境與痛苦。

第二部分－原則及實務

與服務對象有關

職責

1. 社工首要的責任是向服務對象負責。

文化意識

2. 社工應認同其服務的社群在種族及文化方面存在差異。

3. 社工應對其服務對象的文化熟悉和敏銳，並明白到他們之間在族裔、國家本源、國籍、宗教

和習俗各方面的分別。

知情決定及自決

48


4. 社工有責任讓服務對象知悉本身的權利及協助他們獲得適切的服務，且應盡量使服務對象明

白接受服務所要作出的承擔與及可能產生的後果。

5. 如果服務對象是在強制情況下使用服務，社工應向服務對象清楚說明他們的權利和權限，並

協助他們盡量獲取最大的自主權。

6. 因應服務對象在自決權方面的限制，社工應鼓勵服務對象盡量參與有關其目標、選擇和可獲

得服務的決定。

使用資料及保密原則

7. 社工應尊重服務對象在保障私穩和保密個人資料方面的權利，除非其他法例特別是個人資料

（私隱）條例（香港法例第 486 章）有所訂明。社工也應盡可能充分告知服務對象在某種情

況下，保密性所受到的限制，蒐集資料的目的及資料的用途。

8. 在公開個案資料時，社工應採取必要及負責任的措施，刪除一切可以識別個案中人士身份的

資料，並應盡可能事先取得服務對象及相關機構的同意。

9. 社工應採取預防措施，確保和維持透過電子媒介傳達至其他人士的資料的保密，並應盡量避

免披露足以識別服務對象身份的資料。

10. 當社工透過電子媒介提供服務時，應告知服務對象有關該等服務的限制和風險。

11. 除非能確定私隱得到保障，否則社工不應在任何環境下討論機密資料。

12. 當法律程序在進行中，社工應在法律容許的範圍內，保護服務對象的機密資料。

利益衝突

13. 社工不得濫用與服務對象的關係，藉以謀取私人的利益。

性關係

14. 在任何情況下，不論是經雙方同意或以強迫方式，社工不應與服務對象進行任何涉及性的活

動或性接觸。

15. 社工不應為過去曾與其本人有性關係的人士提供臨床服務。

持續提供服務

16. 如服務需要收費，社工應盡量使服務對象不會因經濟能力而不能及時獲取所需要的服務。

收費措施

17. 社工應制訂及維持收費的措施，使之能準確地反映所提供的服務的性質和範圍；如為私人或

獨立執業的社工，更應使該等措施能識別由誰人提供有關服務。

18. 在提供服務之前，社工應清楚告訴服務對象各種服務的收費率和費用。

與同工有關

尊重

19. 社工應尊重其他社工、其他專業人士及義務工作者不同的意見及工作方法。任何建議、批評

及衝突都應以負責任的態度表達和解決。

跨界別協作

20. 社工應以公平和專業的方式執行職務及對待同工，無論對方隸屬哪個機構，對他們均一視同

仁。

21. 社工應盡量與其他社工及其他界別的人士協作，以提高服務的成效。

22. 當社工作為一個跨界別小組的成員時，應本著社工專業的角度、價值和經驗，參與和促成將

會影響服務對象福祉的決定。社工應盡量促使及協助該跨界別小組清楚界定小組整體及其

個別成員的專業和道德責任。

23. 如果一個跨界別小組的決定引起關於社工道德上的問題，該社工應設法透過恰當的渠道來解

決分歧。如果這樣仍未能解決分歧，社工應尋求其他適當和符合服務對象利益的途徑，來處

理他們所關注的問題。

49


督導及培訓

24. 負責督導或提供專業諮詢的社工，應透過適當的進修、培訓、諮商和研究，以獲得和繼續具

備所需的知識、技能和方法，使自己能夠勝任專業督導和培訓方面的工作。社工應只在其知

識領域或工作能力範圍內提供訓練或發出指示。

25. 提供督導的社工應該認同督導在教育、支援、發展和工作上所扮演的角色，而不應濫用與下

屬的專業關係，藉以謀取任何利益。

26. 負責督導的社工有責任監察其下屬按照本《工作守則》辦事。

諮詢

27. 無論何時，如諮詢同工是為了使服務對象獲得最大利益，社工應向同工尋求意見及指導。

28. 社工應只向那些已顯示其具備與須諮詢議題有關的知識、專長和工作能力的同工，諮詢他們

的意見。

29. 當社工為了服務對象而須諮詢同工的意見時，應只向該同工提供必須的資料。

服務對象的選擇權

30. 社工尊重服務對象的選擇權，並不應在不尊重其他機構和同工的情況下奪取其他社工的服務

對象。

共事同工間的溝通

31. 社工與共事同工之間溝通時所談及的內容，在未得到原說者明確許可之前，該社工不應向服

務對象透露任何超出服務對象個人資料範圍以外的內容。

性關係

32. 作為督導或培訓者的社工，不應與在其專業權力下督導的下屬、學生或受訓學員，進行任何

涉及性的活動或性接觸。

與機構有關

33. 社工應向其僱用機構負責，提供具效率及效能的專業服務。

34. 社工應作出建設性及負責任的行動，以影響並改善僱用機構的政策、程序及工作方式，務求

令機構的服務水準不斷提昇，及使社工不會因執行機構的政策時而牴觸這份《工作守則》。

35. 社工在發表任何公開言論或進行公開活動時，應表明自己是以個人身份抑或代表團體或機構

名義行事。

36. 社工不應在未經其服務機構同意下，利用機構與外界的聯繫，為個人的私人業務招攬服務對

象。

與專業有關

專業責任

37. 社工從事其專業工作時，應持著誠實、誠信及盡責的態度。

38. 社工應持守專業的價值觀和操守，並提升專業的知識。

39. 社工應向有關機構報告任何有違專業工作守則而危害接受社會工作服務對象利益的行為，並

在有需要時維護那些受到不公正指控的社工。

職效能力

40. 社工應只在其教育、訓練、執照、證書、專業諮詢、被督導的經驗或其他相關的專業經驗的

範疇內，提供服務及聲稱自己具備有關的職效能力。

41. 社工應只在參與研究、訓練、專業諮詢，及經由熟悉該等介入方法或技巧的人士的督導後，

才在實質的範疇內提供服務，或採用對他們來說新的介入技巧或方法。

42. 如果在新興的實務領域中，仍未有普遍認可的標準，社工應小心判斷，並採取負責任的措施，

包括適當的進修、研究、培訓、專業諮詢和督導，以確保他們的工作成效，以及保護服務對

象免受傷害。

50


尊重

43. 社工對專業提出評論時，應持著負責任和有建設性的態度。

陳述

44. 社工不應就個人資料、專業資格、證書、教育、職效能力、服務性質、服務方法或將可達致

的成果，作出不確的聲明或虛假的陳述。

獨立進行社工實務

45. 從事私人執業或獨立進行社工實務的社工，應只在其能力範圍內提供服務。一旦服務對象的

需要超出其能力範圍，社工應予以適當的轉介。任何有關其服務的宣傳，均應建基於該等社

工的實際資格、經驗和專長。

專業發展

46. 社工有責任不斷增進本身的專業知識和技能。

47. 社工有責任協助新加入社會工作專業的同工建立、增強與發展其操守、價值觀、與及專業上

的技能與知識。

奉召當值

48. 當有關方面提出明確的要求，特別召集在場的社工，在特定的情況下提供某些服務，社工應

奉召當值註三。

與社會有關

49. 當政府、社團或機構的政策、程序或活動導致或構成任何人士陷入困境及痛苦，又或是妨礙

困境及痛苦的解除時，社工認同有需要喚起決策者或公眾人士對這些情況的關注。

50. 社工認同有需要倡導修訂政策及法律，以改善有關的社會情況，促進社會的公義及褔祉。社

工亦認同有需要致力推動社會福利政策的實施。社工不可運用個人的知識、技能或經驗助長

不公平的政策或不人道的活動。

51. 社工認同有需要致力防止及消除歧視，令社會資源分配更為合理，務使所有人士有均等機會

獲取所需的資源和服務。

52. 社工認同有需要推動大眾尊重社會的不同文化。

53. 社工認同有需要鼓勵社會大眾在知情的情況下參與制訂和改善社會政策和制度。

註釋 (一) 「服務對象」是指目前正在接受社工所提供的個人、小組或項目活動等直接服務的人士。

(二) 「服務對象的利益」─ 應由社工在考慮、平衡其服務對象的個人利益及其他有關人士（包括家庭成員、機構、

社群、社會等）的權益後，作出專業判斷。

(三) 「奉召當值」不適用於透過大眾傳媒向全體社工發出的呼召。

（附註﹕如中英文版的內容有歧義，以中文版為準。）

一九九八年十月十六日首次刊憲生效

二零一零年一月十五日修訂

第二部分第 7 段於二零一三年十一月十五日修訂

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Higher Diploma in Social Work - EdUHK