Pre-Professional Placement Intervention Models in the Social Work programmed at the Technical University of Manabí in 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Pre-professional placements are a fundamental component of Social Work students' education, as they enable them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. However, at the Technical University of Manabí, no prior research has been conducted on the intervention models utilized. Objetive: The objective of the research was to determine the intervention models currently employed in the pre-professional placements of the Social Work programmed at UTM. The study aimed to characterize the models in terms of their objectives, structure, activities and evaluation mechanisms. Methods: The study adopted a quantitative approach with an exploratory-diagnostic design. The population consisted of 510 students in the seventh and eighth levels. The sample comprised 426 students, selected through non-probability sampling. A 17-item questionnaire on intervention models was designed. Results: The main results identified 10 applied models, with Case Management, Crisis Intervention and Behavior Modification being the most prevalent. Most include clear objectives, action plans and teacher supervision. Conclusion: The effectiveness of the intervention models applied in the pre-professional practices is corroborated, however, systematic evaluation needs to be improved, the models need to be adapted to local needs and the articulation between theory and professional practice needs to be strengthened for a comprehensive training.