Understanding and Using Research in Social Work
- Brian J. Taylor - University of Ulster, UK
- Campbell Killick - University of Ulster, UK
- Anne McGlade - The Health and Social Care Board for Northern Ireland
Mastering Social Work Practice
By using the examples drawn from evidence-based practice (e.g. what is known to work and what we know about social work processes), the authors deliver a text that will help support students to appraise and then integrate research into both their daily practice decisions and their assignments and assessments. It will do this by defining key concepts like 'knowledge' and 'evidence' and then look at how these concepts include component parts - from law and legislation to practice knowledge and reflective and critical practice. Case examples are used to illustrate how a clear understanding of these component parts can build to a substantial evidence base from which to draw upon. Identifying relevant research and appraising its quality are core aspects of the book. Later chapters show students how robust knowledge of evidence-based practice can develop into a clear and confident approach to their workloads and their daily practice dilemmas.
A very user-friendly text, esp at pre-qualifying levels.
Making students aware of the importance for a systematic and scientific perspective on social work attitudes and interventions
This is essential reading for social workers and social students contemplating and embarking on research and research reviews. It reviews and examines critical issues and approaches in an accessible way with many examples of social work related research.
Very contemporary and relevant to social work practice in particular in a culture where such a text and practice itself is so important. Clearly set out and accessible for students.
Useful supportive text for research students in this field
This book has been recommended for a postgraduate course undertaken by professional social workers. It is particularly useful for individuals who are not necessarily actively undertaking research but want to understand both its relevance and how its quality can be assessed. The text is well laid out and accompanied by very useful case studies and research summaries.
This book is pitched at exactly the right level for my second year social work students so will become a core text. I would have liked to see some discussion about the contested nature of evidence-based practice and a brief mention of research philosophy with an outline of different epistemological positions, but aside from these minor improvements, this book is an excellent resource.
A good starter book for apprentice researchers
Succinct focused and very well written with up to the minute insights on key issues. Excellent book.
