Social Justice and Multiculturalism in Consultation Training: An Analysis of Syllabi from School Psychology Programs

Abstract

ABSTRACT Training in school-based consultation may encompass instruction on various consultation models, aims, and work with various partners. However, it is unclear how trainers currently structure coursework and the extent to which social justice is embedded in class. Therefore, we conducted a systematic replication of Hazel et al. (2010) analyses of consultation training syllabi. We analyzed 63 syllabi from 55 school psychology programs. We found many course instructors grounded training in problem-solving models. Trainers assigned at least one reading or assignment related to multicultural considerations or social justice, but social justice was rarely centered as a training goal. As compared to the Hazel et al. previous findings, we noted more syllabi incorporating topics on teleconsultation and self-reflection, which may be critical to advancing social justice in consultation. Limitations and implications of findings are discussed, including the need to more comprehensively incorporate social justice themes in all aspects of school consultation training.