Maureen O'loughlin

Effective Observation in Social Work Practice - Transforming Social Work Practice Series Maureen O'loughlin

Marc Notes: 'Observation in Social Work Practice' will help students to grasp the fundamentals of social work observation, from the theories and methods to how these can be demonstrated in everyday practice. Skills are covered throughout, as well as effective observation work with different client groups and in different settings. The contributors argue that an observant social worker is an effective and resilient one, and demonstrate this through case study material and research summaries. Table of Contents: IntroductionAn introduction to the theories of observation - Nicky Ryden and Steve O LoughlinApproaches to observation practice - Nicky RydenPractical techniques for the observation of service users - Nicky RydenObservation with disabled children and adults with learning difficulties - Jackie Hughes and Bronwyn RobertsUsing observation in training and development - Nicky RydenGroups and observations - Steve O LoughlinConclusion"Publisher Marketing: Introducing the concept of observation to social work students can be a complex and challenging task. Assessing their observation skills and assignments can be even harder, especially if much of this work takes place implicitly, throughout their training and placements. This book will help students to grasp the fundamentals of social work observation, from the theories and methods to how these can be demonstrated in everyday practice. Skills are covered throughout, as well as effective observation work with different client groups and in different settings. The authors argue that an observant social worker is an effective and resilient one, and demonstrate this through case study material and research summaries.

Contributor Bio:  O'Loughlin, Maureen Maureen is an Independent Social Work Consultant who was formerly the Director of Social Work programmes at the University of Leeds. She has substantial experience working with children and families as a social worker and a Guardian ad Litem. She now undertakes independent assessments for court proceedings in a variety of areas and continues her interest in adoption through chairing a local authority adoption panel and the Independent Reviewing Mechanism. Contributor Bio:  O'Loughlin, Steve Steve is an Independent Social Work Consultant, but he was previously Practice Co-ordinator for the Social Work programmes at the University of Leeds where he developed the practice curriculum for the new social work degree at the University. He currently acts as an Independent Practice Assessor for qualifying students, practice teachers and post-qualification awards. He is an experienced fostering and adoption worker and undertakes independent assessment for a number of agencies.