Engage in Diversity and Difference in Practice Competency: Exploring the Explicit Curriculum and Outcome Measures of Graduate Social Work Programs

Abstract

ABSTRACTEngaging in diversity and difference in practice is an essential skill for all social workers. The Council on Social Work Education emphasizes the importance of the development of these skills in social work education. The aim of this research was to influence best practice teaching standards and outcome measures for this competency. Self-study reports from 67 graduate schools accredited by the Council on Social Work Education were analyzed. The results of this study indicate schools are relying on assignments, readings, and videos as the means of teaching students about engaging in diversity and difference and relying on the field evaluation tool and student self-assessments as outcome measures. Results are examined in depth, and implications for social work education are discussed.