Spanish for Social Workers: Preparing Students for Multicultural Social Work Practice

Abstract

Cultural awareness is important in the field of social work. However, it is inadequate for problem-solving with non-English speaking clients. It is necessary to couple cultural sensitivity with useful language skills for effective social work practice. Unfortunately, social work educators have largely neglected the task of preparing students for practice with populations whose language they do not already speak. This task can be incorporated into social work education. The authors describe an innovative language instruction and cultural sensitivity program designed for BSW students. Incorporating elements of intensive language immersion with non-traditional content, screening, and attention to group dynamics, this approach enriches the social work curriculum and prepares students for practice with Spanish-speaking clients.