Work Practice Research Articles

Bridging human rights and social work education: the triple mandate in Austrian and Australian teaching contexts

ABSTRACT This article explores social work’s mandates, delineating the profession’s obligations across three key domains: the client-centric mandate, the state and its agency-driven regulatory and policy mandate and the mandate grounded in the profession’s scientific and ethical standards, including the commitment to human rights—social works triple mandate. Drawing on the author’s experience as a senior lecturer in Austria and Australia, the analysis highlights how the socio-political environments and educational frameworks can shape social work education. The application of the triple mandate is illustrated through a systematic set of W-questions to identify different dimensions of social problems within a broader systemic framework. This approach, grounded in scientific realism—which holds that reality exists independently of our perceptions and aligns with emergent systemism by scientifically examining social interactions to explain complex social systems—equips emerging social workers with the analytical and practical skills to transform private troubles into public issues. A scenario where a school student experiences alienation, leading to absenteeism, exemplifies the connection between theory and action. The discussion concludes by asserting that integrating science-based social work practices with ethical principles empowers social workers to navigate complex professional challenges and strengthens their commitment to human rights and social justice.

Implementation of Computational Tools in the Teaching-learning Process of Materials Strength

With the development of this work, we seek to highlight the importance of implementing technological tools in the study of the subject of material resistance, in order to accompany the teaching-learning process. Bringing computational tools on par with traditional learning in the classroom by applying a series of innovative alternatives and work practices, outside the classroom and that meet your expectations of progress in teaching-learning in fields related to the resistance of materials , who are under their responsibility aligned with the objective of advancing in the career with practical knowledge. This research topic was chosen due to the students' deficient knowledge in this area due to reasons such as late academic reintegration, work-related issues, among others. In addition to the little use of teaching material by the student, thus harming their comprehensive development. In this work, it is intended to contribute to the analysis of structures using design software and structural analysis. Interactive videos will be generated with their resolution, simulations of practices as well as innovative interactive content, which collaborate for the development of the academic and intellectual potential of the students who take the subject of resistance of materials.

“Not a cookie cutter situation”: how neurodivergent students experience group work in their STEM courses

BackgroundAlthough group work is increasingly used in STEM courses and may lead to improved academic outcomes, there is evidence that some implementations of group work may lead to unintended barriers for certain students’ learning. Despite the growing number of neurodivergent undergraduate students, there is limited research on neurodivergent students’ experiences with group work in STEM courses. To address this knowledge gap, the current research investigated the experiences of 22 neurodivergent undergraduate students with group work in STEM courses at a range of institution types and in a variety of STEM disciplines. Participants shared experiences with in-class and out-of-class group work assignments for lecture and laboratory courses.ResultsThrough inductive thematic coding of semi-structured interview transcripts, we identified seven themes impacting participants’ experiences. Three themes were individual level: personal characteristics that participants associated with their neurodivergence; strategies for academic success (with subthemes of organization/time management, adaptive communication, and self-advocacy); and beliefs on group work’s value. Four themes were group level/classroom level: group dynamics; role in group (including leadership roles); the competitive culture within STEM; and recommendations for instructors. Through a social-relational perspective on disability, we proposed a model showcasing how group and classroom factors serve as supports or barriers to neurodivergent students’ full participation in group work, as well as to their sense of belonging. Using the seven themes we articulated, we outlined a set of practices for designing group work assignments. In addition, we propose how pairing inclusive assignment design with instructor reflection and articulating anti-ableist values can support neurodivergent student belonging by disrupting discourses of normalcy in STEM.ConclusionsAs one of the first studies exploring the impact that group work in STEM courses has on neurodivergent undergraduates, this work may inform reimaginations of group work practices to better address the needs of neurodivergent STEM students and support a more inclusive culture in STEM classrooms. In addition, our conceptual model may serve as the basis for future research regarding interactions between individual-level and group-level factors associated with neurodivergent students’ learning through group work and other active learning practices.

Features of the application of educational measures to employees of the internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation of the third category of professional suitability

In this article, the author explores the problem of the application of educational measures in relation to employees of the internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation, classified in the third category of professional suitability. The author examines the features of this process and identifies the factors influencing the effectiveness of the educational process. The data of an empirical study conducted in the department of the linear department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia at Pulkovo airport are analyzed. The importance of adapting educational approaches to a changing socio-cultural environment is emphasized and makes recommendations for the development and improvement of educational work practices among law enforcement officers.

Intergenerational Care and Subjective Well-being: A Study of the Particularities of Ageing Amongst the Indigenous Peoples of Chile

Abstract This empirical study explores intergenerational caregiving and subjective well-being amongst older adults in Indigenous communities in rural Chile. Facing substantial social and economic challenges, these communities depend heavily on cultural traditions and family support systems. Data were collected from 1,348 older adults, aged sixty and above, using surveys to assess caregiving practices, intergenerational support and subjective well-being, measured by the Personal Wellbeing Index and the Perceived Social Support Questionnaire. Findings reveal that caregiving is deeply rooted in cultural and historical contexts, with positive aspects such as increased satisfaction and social connectedness, and negative aspects including stress and social isolation. Women predominantly assume caregiving roles, maintaining cultural traditions and supporting family well-being. Notable differences in intergenerational support and subjective well-being were observed based on ethnic group and gender. The implications for social work practice are insightful. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive social work policies and inclusive strategies that address the well-being of older adults in these communities. Social workers and policymakers must consider cultural nuances and the unique needs of Indigenous populations, taking into account cultural identity, economic conditions and acculturation to develop effective support programmes.

Long-term impacts of socioeconomic status and childhood trauma on depression in older adults: social work strategies

ABSTRACT This study explores the impact of life course socioeconomic status (SES) and childhood trauma on depressive symptoms in Chinese middle-aged and older adults, while also examining the role of chronic diseases and implications for social work practice. Using data from 9,942 participants, structural equation was established to investigate these relationships. Results reveals that low childhood SES positively affects depressive symptoms through low SES in mid-to-late life (std. β = 0.168, p < .001), and domestic child abuse negatively impacts depressive symptoms through low SES in mid-to-late life (std. β=-0.020, p < .001). Additionally, experiencing peer bullying is directly associated with depressive symptoms (std. β = 0.145, p < .001). Exposure to domestic violence is directly related to depressive symptoms (std. β = 0.078, p < .001) and indirectly leads to more severe depressive symptoms through chronic disease (std. β = 0.023, p < .001). Social workers in healthcare settings can utilize these findings to better understand risk factors for depression and provide trauma-informed care and economic assistance across the life course. Additional training for social workers on the lasting impacts of childhood adversity is warranted. By intervening at both individual and policy levels, social work practitioners can help break cycles of poverty and poor health stemming from childhood.

Google Sites as an Educational Tool in the Context of Traditional and Project-based Education

The article presents various opportunities for the integration of the Google sites as an educational tool, as well as methodological directions for pedagogical specialists who implement them in their work practice. What has been stressed upon is the use of the Google sites in traditional and project-based education, and the results of the efficiency of the electronic tool have been presented in the survey process. The aim of the survey includes verification of the applicability of the Google sites in the contemporary Bulgarian school by means of didactic experiment, monitoring and survey, conducted in two primary school classes and one secondary school class, total number of students 77, in 2024.

Maida Herman Solomon (1891–1988): an invisible forerunner in the field of clinical social work

Purpose This paper aims (1) to create a sense of resonance with Maida Herman Solomon and her ideas, (2) to inspire a reconsideration of current management history (the unquestioned block box of dominant figures, dominant foci and dominant practices), (3) to bring Solomon’s contributions to clinical social work into present discourse in management and organizational studies and (4) to foster recognition for Solomon in her own field of social work, as forerunner in a developing profession. Guiding this study is the question: “What are Solomon’s key contributions and why is she overlooked?” Design/methodology/approach This paper features a novel methodology, ficto-feminism. The feminism in ficto-feminism is presented as ontology, epistemology, method and mode of writing. Ficto-feminism combines polemical (or prowoman writing) with aspects of collective biography, autoethnography and fictocriticism. As such, the paper contributes to the emerging feminist tradition of writing differently. The approach is an embodied and reflexive approach that engages with history to investigate the absence of women. Findings Maida Solomon was an educator, researcher, practitioner and advocate. Her contributions to the development and practice of clinical social work spanned over 60 years, and yet, she is little more than a footnote in the history of the field. Her contributions include authoring and implementing graduate programming, which continues to be the taken for granted training; penning some of the most seminal works and advancing theory; introducing academic and scientific approaches, which saw the field professionalize and adopt new standards; and helping to change the way that society thought about mental health and sexual health. A confluence of factors contributes to her marginalization and neglect: gender, ethnicity, the feminized field of social work and the stigmatized focus for her practice. Originality/value The paper combines assertive autobiographical and literary strategies to foreground an overlooked female leader in the field of clinical social work, namely, Maida Solomon. Drawing on biographical material, literature, media and archival material, this paper features a fictional but truthful conversation between the present-day author/writer/historian and the posthumous, historical protagonist (Maida Solomon). In so doing, the engagement with history is both one that deconstructs while reconstructing a historical account with both aesthetic and political implications.

Manifesting learning in the workplace: an activity theoretical study of professional learning in preschool using active learning classrooms

PurposeThe purpose of this study is the development of a methodology that draws on activity theory (AT) to assess educators’ and leaders’ professional learning in a pre-school setting.Design/methodology/approachThe paper reports on a case study of professional development in an active learning classroom (ALC) where 20 professionals participated in a one-day writing workshop. AT was used to analyse the writing workshop as well as data from reflective writing, video recordings, interviews and surveys.FindingsThe paper shows that professional development is significantly influenced by a range of mediating technologies used in educational spaces such as the ALC. The mediated practice breaks normal work practice in the pre-school activity system and division of labour roles, and hierarchical positions and professional relationships. Such a break is considered to facilitate a manifestation of professional learning. However, it also poses a risk for organisational disruptions emphasising the need for diagnostic understanding when an ALC should be used for capturing workplace learning.Practical implicationsStructured writing workshops – taking place in ALCs – provide a suitable forum that breaks with routines, accelerates collective reflections and articulation of negotiated meaning and produces a common ground across hierarchical roles supporting collective professional development in the activity system.Originality/valueUnlike previous research focusing on student perspectives, this study views these spaces as settings for professionals to recognise and solve developmental problems. It suggests that structured writing workshops in ALCs can accelerate collective reflection and support collective professional development across hierarchical roles.

Care robot literacy: integrating AI ethics and technological literacy in contemporary healthcare

AbstractHealthcare work is guided by care ethics, and any technological changes, including the use of robots and artificial intelligence (AI), must comply with existing norms, values and work practices. By bridging technological literacy and AI ethics, this study provides a nuanced definition and an integrative conceptualization of care robot literacy (CRL) for contemporary care work. Robotized care tasks require new orientation and qualifications on the part of employees. CRL is considered as one of these new demands, which requires practitioners to have the resources, skills and understanding necessary to work with robots. This study builds on sociotechnical approach of literacy by highlighting a dynamic relationship of care robotization in which successful human–technology interaction relies on exchanges between the technological and the social. Our findings from directed content analysis and theoretical synthesis of in-demand technological literacy and AI ethics in care work emphasize competencies and situational awareness regarding both using the robot and communicating about the care robot. The initial conceptualization of CRL provides a conceptual framework for future studies, implementation and product development of care robots, drastically differing from studying, implementing and developing robots in general. In searching for technologically sound and ethically compliant solutions, the study advocates for the future significance of context-specific CRL as valuable addition to the terminology of ethical AI in healthcare.

In this issue… exploring identities, methodologies, and lived experiences in social work practice

In this issue… exploring identities, methodologies, and lived experiences in social work practice

Implications of Victim Blaming Narratives for Sex Workers: Informing Social Work Practice and the Law

The purpose of the paper is to explore social works practice response to sexual violence and the impact of victim blaming narratives for sex workers. Using a feminist standpoint epistemology, in keeping with an interpretivist/feminist qualitative framework, we critically explore the oppressive structures which impact on service users′ lives. Data collection consisted of interviews with 15 female sex workers in the Republic of Ireland. In locating sex workers experiences, we set out the argument that social work practice is complicit in victim blaming narratives in response to sexual violence. Themes emerging from the data to support this claim are (1) victim blaming perspectives for sex workers (2) reporting sexual violence to authorities, and (3) impact of the Law. By using the Irish standpoint, and the 2017 Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act, where sex work activities remain subject to penal measures our paper provides conclusive evidence which calls into question social works response to sexual violence. We argue for a revised social work response to sexual violence which includes a critical examination of ′victim blaming′ narratives and the current legislative process which inform their practice.

Digital automation and working life of HR practitioners: a gender analysis of the implications for workforce and work practices

Human Resources (HR) has emerged as a critical target for digital automation, aiming to reduce costs, improve quality, and expedite repetitive processes within organizations. Several literature reviews have explored this topic, yielding mixed results depending on factors related to the specific national and organizational context. They have highlighted issues such as lack of competence, safety and ethical dilemmas, and bias in decision-making processes. However, despite HR being predominantly female dominated, few studies have examined the gendered implications of digital automation in this field. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the gendered implications of digital automation in recruitment processes and work practices within HR. Drawing upon gender theory, we will conduct a critical literature review based on existing reviews to reevaluate current knowledge. The findings suggest that while digital automation can enhance administrative efficiency in recruitment processes, it does not significantly impact the gender balance of the workforce. However, the findings also indicate that digital automation will likely transform the occupational role into a more masculinized way of working. This transformation is characterized by social distancing, technological rationality, and reliance on self-service systems. In conclusion, digital automation is poised to reshape the HR occupation into what we term “screen-level HR,” comprising a predominantly female workforce engaged in masculine coded work practices.

The influence of stakeholder theory and Islamic faith on employee perception of CSR

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the influences of employee perception of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the Readymade Garment Industry (RMG). The RMG industry in Bangladesh has faced constant criticism of their working practices, and following some fatal incidents, the industry was faced with external pressures of implementing CSR practices and policies. Manufacturers invested and initiated CSR in their business and marketing strategy to survive in the global competition. Employees are internal stakeholders that help to implement and disseminate strategies successfully; however, there is not enough knowledge in the area of employee perception of CSR. Design/methodology/approach The paper is an exploratory study using the quantitative data collection method. In total, 128 responses have been collected from participants who are employees of garment factories in Bangladesh to understand their perception of CSR. Regression analysis has been conducted to ascertain the relationships between the factors that influence employee perception. Theories of stakeholder management, organizational citizenship behaviour, social exchange theory and employee engagement have been used to analyse the factors that influence employee perception. Findings The findings show that the factors that influence perception of CSR are not confined to the stakeholder’s initiatives but are significantly dependent on the employees’ direct involvement, engagement and personal values as a beneficiary and an executioner. In addition to the stakeholder’s initiatives that are a key deliverable to the marketing strategy, the employees are influenced by their personal beliefs and practices that can be associated with influences of religion, culture and the wider social landscape. Research limitations/implications The data is limited to a small number of factories located near the capital, Dhaka, this is a small sample compared to the 4,000 factories in Bangladesh. Further research can be conducted based on a larger data set, which could represent a wider range of employee perspectives from different factories relating to size, product category and geographical location. The study does not expand on the factors that influence employee perception specifically. Practical implications The findings of the study can help the employers understand that the organization’s priority and participation are not the only factors that influence the employee’s perceptions. The employees’ assessment of the stakeholder’s intentions of CSR, which are reflected in the organization’s priority, shapes employee perceptions that are influenced by their personal values and beliefs. The awareness of the factors that influence the employees will enable organizations to motivate them and deliver on expectations of the business partners. Social implications It is the practices aimed at the employees that enhance their engagement in CSR that enable them to reciprocate and influence their perception of the organization’s fair and genuine motives. The effectiveness of this aids the macro-marketing aspects of managing social concerns and the impact of businesses. Originality/value The data collected is primary data from employees of garment manufacturers. The hypothesized framework is developed by the authors, and the outcomes of the factors that influence the employee perception of CSR are escalated from the analysis conducted by the authors.

Factor Affecting Work Efficiency of Pick Tower Department Employees in Lotus Distribution Center, Khon Kaen, Thailand

The purpose of this study is to Factor Affecting Work Efficiency of Pick Tower Department Employees in Lotus Distribution Center Khon Kaen. The Sample is Pick Tower Department Employees in Lotus Distribution Center, Khon Kaen. The instrument used was a questionnaire consisting of 80 people by accidental sampling. The average of Item-Objective Congruence Index (IOC) was 0.78 and the Reliability index was 0.83. The statistics used for data analysis were percentage, mean, standard deviation and Stepwise Multiple Regression statistics. The findings disclosed as follows: (1) Motivating elements in terms of job responsibilities, supervisors grant employees autonomy and confidence in carrying out their duties, which has an impact on work productivity. (2) The policy and administration supporting factors consist of an organization-wide executive meeting where policies and work practices are explained, as well as employee participation in operation planning. With respect to the conditions of employment, A secure workplace exists. Orderly and orderly Convenient for business Having adequate and suitable equipment required to perform the task will have an impact on the task's efficacy with the significance level .05.

Using Library activities to develop teaching-learning French at Faculty of Education at the Francophone Center, National University of Lao

This research report combines two objectives 1). to study additional activities outside the classroom to improve the learning of French in the first year of the French license at the Department of Foreign Languages, Faculty of Education National University of Lao, and 2). to study the satisfaction of the students with the activities. In addition, these activities are intended to allow students to usefully occupy their free time and to promote the practice of language skills and group work. The target group of the research is students from 1st to 3rd year, with a total of 40 people, 28 women. They have an intermediate level of French and they all need to participate in the activity. The research tool was a questionnaire based on the 5-level Likert rating scale. The statistics used to describe the search results are frequency, percentage, and average. The activities in which most students participate with interest are “talking with French people” and “searching for documents,” so the research group can say that both activities are very interesting (F = 97.5% and F = 100%). The research group can therefore say that both activities are very interesting (F = 97.5% and F = 100%). In addition, the research group found that the level of satisfaction is very high in terms of reading French books (58%), in terms of watching films French 67%, in terms of conversation with French speakers (52.5%), in terms of listening to French music 50%, in terms of computer learning (50%) and in terms of finding passages (50%). Furthermore, students develop and strengthen their knowledge of France. Students can also practice communication and have the courage to express themselves in French. Therefore, teachers must also teach French culture because it is very necessary that students know well. Thus, the research group can conclude that these activities outside the classroom contribute to stimulating students' desire to learn French. The various activities were achievement for the goal setting due to the activities management was increased students’ interest in learning French while teachers’ teaching.

Exploring the Roles of Benefits, Practices, Digitalization, and Sustainability on Employee Satisfaction in the Malaysian Oil and Gas Industry

This study assesses the impact of benefits and rewards, new working practices, digitalization, and sustainability on employee satisfaction and expectations in the Malaysian oil and gas industry. A quantitative research methodology was employed, utilizing a structured survey distributed to 391 industry professionals. Statistical analyses were used to evaluate the relationships between the independent variables (benefits and rewards, new working practices, digitalization, and sustainability) and the dependent variable (employee satisfaction and expectations). The findings revealed that all four hypotheses were supported, indicating a strong and positive impact of each independent variable on employee satisfaction and expectations. Benefits and rewards were found to have the most substantial influence, followed closely by new working practices, sustainability, and digitalization. This research contributes significantly to the understanding of employee satisfaction dynamics in the post-pandemic era within this critical sector. It provides actionable insights for organizational leaders seeking to enhance work environments and align with evolving employee expectations. The study highlights the importance of a holistic approach to employee engagement, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies that address diverse aspects of the work environment.

Registered nurse case managers’ work experiences with a person-centered collaborative healthcare model: an interview study

BackgroundMultimorbidity is increasingly acknowledged as a significant health concern, particularly among older individuals. It is associated with a decline in quality of life and psychosocial well-being as well as an increased risk of being referred to multiple healthcare providers, including more frequent admissions to emergency departments. Person-centered care interventions tailored to individuals with multimorbidity have shown promising results in improving patient outcomes. Research is needed to explore how work practices within integrated care models are experienced from Registered Nurse Case Managers’ (RNCMs) perspective to identify areas of improvement. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe RNCMs’ work experience with a person-centered collaborative healthcare model (PCCHCM).MethodsThis study used an inductive design. The data were collected through individual interviews with 11 RNCMs and analyzed using qualitative content analysis.ResultsData analysis resulted in four generic categories: ‘Being a detective, ‘Being a mediator’, ‘Being a partner’, and ‘Being a facilitator of development’ which formed the basis of the main category ‘Tailoring healthcare, and social services to safeguard the patient’s best.’ The findings showed that RNCMs strive to investigate, identify, and assess older persons’ needs for coordinated care. They worked closely with patients and their relatives to engage them in informed decision-making and to implement those decisions in a personalized agreement that served as the foundation for the care and social services provided. Additionally, the RNCMs acted as facilitators of the development of the PCCHCM, improving collaboration with other healthcare professionals and enhancing the possibility of securing the best care for the patient.ConclusionsThe results of this study demonstrated that RNCMs tailor healthcare and social services to provide care in various situations, adhering to person-centered care principles and continuity of care. The findings underline the importance of implementing integrated care models that consider the unique characteristics of each care context and adapt different case managers’ roles based on the patient’s individual needs as well as on the specific needs of the local setting. More research is needed from the patients’ and their relatives’ perspectives to deepen the understanding of the PCCHCM concerning its ability to provide involvement, security, and coordination of care.

The Hong Kong Shue Yan University Social Work Research Center—A Case Analysis

Hong Kong Shue Yan University (HKSYU) Center for Social Work Research and Practice was established in 2015, aspiring to collaborate with industry partners to conduct research that enhance the industry's understanding of social issues and develop quality services for the community. HKSYU is a self-financing university without direct subsidies from the HKSAR Government to the Center. In the last couple of years, the Center has implemented 11 research and training projects, jointly organizing with local and overseas universities. Two of them adopted the interdisciplinary approach, collaborating with health and nursing disciplines. Using the extended case method, the Center was found to be aligned with the principles of evidence-based practice and research-mindedness in social work. Moreover, the Center normally adopted the “Translational form of collaboration,” coproducing research projects with industry partners. Upon reflection, the Center should maximize its involvement with social work practitioners to promote research-mindedness in the practice environment.

On the Way to Be(Coming) a Social Worker: Phenomenological Reflections by Social Work Students on Their Final Year as a Site of Professional Identity Exploration

Abstract In the field of social work research and practice, considerable focus has been placed on the preparedness of students as they transition from being students to becoming professionals. However, insufficient attention has been paid to the processes that occur during the final academic year of their training—a critical transition period that requires a deeper examination. Using a qualitative approach, the study examined the phenomenological perspectives of twenty-nine social work students at an Israeli university during the final academic year of their bachelor’s degree, employing the photovoice methodology. Content analysis of the results identified four key characteristics of the final academic year: (1) the liminal-transitional nature of identity work during the final year; (2) separation from the student identity; (3) the doorknob effect; and (4) entering the professional shoes. The research results are discussed and conceptualised within the framework of the theory of liminality, highlighting its relevance to understanding the transition processes that characterise professional identity work. Additionally, the study explores the implications of liminality in preparing students for entering the job market, particularly considering the distinction between being a professional and becoming a professional.