Appendix 3.2

Appendix 3.2:

Appendix 3 - Markers Comments.
Appendix 3.1 - Category System - Evidence Indicators.
Guidelines for Markers of Integrative Practice Studies (1).
Appendix 3.3 - Guidelines for Markers of Integrative Practice Studies (2).
Appendix 3.4 - Guidelines for Markers of Integrative Practice Studies (3).

Introduction

An integrative practice study should describe, analyse and reflect on a piece of work undertaken on placement, showing how material from practice knowledge and the modules of Part One and/or Two of the programme has been applied. It is the assessable assignment for the Direct Practice modules. It draws on learning from all the preceding modules. The piece of work may relate to an individual or group in field, day, community or residential settings.

Use of terms

DESCRIPTION
Descriptive writing gives an account of the practice.
It should show the process of work and provide sufficient information to enable a reader who does not know the student or the context of the work to comprehend quickly what the situation is all about.

ANALYSIS
Analytical writing critically examines and conceptualises practice.
The IPS is a critical analysis of practice and examines why certain decisions were taken rather than others and how these were then acted upon. The student should show how knowledge and concepts from Part I or Part II modules or previous experience inform the student's practice. Also relevant here is consideration of value issues and dilemmas.

REFLECTION
Reflection is the process by which meaning is given to experience.
Writing an IPS requires the student to reflect on her/his practice, in the light of possible alternative choices and actions. S/he should describe what has been learned, and interpret and evaluate that learning. The study should indicate how reflections on practice and discussion in supervision illuminated or extended the students practice and theoretical basis.

Framework

The central part of the study is the process of the work undertaken by the student with a concentration on assessment and planning in Part One of the DipSW and in Part Two carrying on into intervention. The elements listed in the assignment question must be covered. Material from academic modules should be incorporated as relevant to the particular piece of work being analysed. By this means the student can show how knowledge informed practice, values underpinned her/his work and, as appropriate, action was taken to counter discrimination and racism.

All students must also discuss their own learning, use of supervision and the roles they have adopted in practice. Evidence should be given of the impact of the work on service users.

The Integrative Practice Study is an academic piece of work. The focus is on what the student writes about their practice not the practice itself. The practice teacher's contribution to the assessment process is crucial since s/he knows the piece of work chosen by the student and can, therefore, comment on the accuracy of the learning and the description and analysis of the work.