This chapter examines the integration of competency-based education (CBE) and service learning in social work, emphasizing their joint role in equipping students for the complexities of professional practice. CBE provides a structured framework for acquiring essential skills through measurable learning outcomes, while service learning cultivates real-world engagement, ethical decision-making, and reflective practice. By linking academic instruction with hands-on experiences, service learning enhances students’ capacity to apply theoretical knowledge across diverse social contexts. It further illustrates how service learning aligns with the IASSW Global Standards for Social Work Education and Training, reinforcing competencies such as cultural awareness, ethical conduct, social justice advocacy, and client-centred practice. Although some critics argue that CBE may reduce social work to a set of technical skills, the inclusion of service learning counterbalances this risk by promoting community co-creation, adaptability, and a holistic learning approach. By outlining a structured curriculum design that encompasses competency identification, assessment, and practical application, this chapter addresses implementation challenges—including ethical considerations, supervision, and resource demands—and advocates for a balanced, integrated approach that strengthens students’ professional identity, civic engagement, and readiness to navigate an evolving global landscape.

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Enhancing Competencies Through Service Learning in Social Work Education

  • Tatiana Matulayová,
  • Nataša Matulayová,
  • Shorena Sadzaglishvili

摘要

This chapter examines the integration of competency-based education (CBE) and service learning in social work, emphasizing their joint role in equipping students for the complexities of professional practice. CBE provides a structured framework for acquiring essential skills through measurable learning outcomes, while service learning cultivates real-world engagement, ethical decision-making, and reflective practice. By linking academic instruction with hands-on experiences, service learning enhances students’ capacity to apply theoretical knowledge across diverse social contexts. It further illustrates how service learning aligns with the IASSW Global Standards for Social Work Education and Training, reinforcing competencies such as cultural awareness, ethical conduct, social justice advocacy, and client-centred practice. Although some critics argue that CBE may reduce social work to a set of technical skills, the inclusion of service learning counterbalances this risk by promoting community co-creation, adaptability, and a holistic learning approach. By outlining a structured curriculum design that encompasses competency identification, assessment, and practical application, this chapter addresses implementation challenges—including ethical considerations, supervision, and resource demands—and advocates for a balanced, integrated approach that strengthens students’ professional identity, civic engagement, and readiness to navigate an evolving global landscape.