The aim of this practice observation unit is to demonstrate that the student has met the required standards for practice at an appropriate level as identified by the professional bodies and in line with relevant professional standards and/or competencies. 

This could include NHS standards for professionals working in health and social care and also the BASW Professional Capabilities Framework and /or SWE Professional Standards for social workers. 

The aim of this unit is for students to engage in a critically reflective process which increases self-awareness, allows students to reflect on their own behaviour, biases, interactions, communication skills and overall effectiveness in their role(s) and supports the development of professional practice. 

This unit can be undertaken as part of the MA Leading and Developing Services programme.

Students can be observed undertaking a range of activities including (but not exclusively):

• Supervision 
• Leading a team meeting
• Supervising a student
• Attending or leading multi-agency meetings and / or panels
• Line management meetings
• Practice with service users / patients 
• Running a training session
• Attending resource panels
• Interviewing / recruitment panels
• Managing complex case work

Learning outcomes

Having completed this unit the student is expected to demonstrate:

1. Capacity to perform consistently within the core values and skill base that underpin the principles of ethical professional practice (including those which facilitate partnerships with service users, relatives, carers, and other professionals). 

2. Capability in the support of service users with complex needs and in a context of risk, uncertainty and conflict. 

3. Competence in professional practice in accordance with the requirements of the professional/statutory regulatory authorities. 

4. Critical reflection and evaluation of their own practice, application of theory etc, and impact on others.

Assessment

Coursework equivalent to 3000 words. 

Evidence will be submitted in the form of a portfolio which should contain:

• A signed testimony and/or practice observation report/s. This evidences the assessment of ILOs 1-3 through observed practice.
• A reflective assignment (2,000 words) that evidences ILO4.  

Students will normally be observed on at least two occasions. The coursework will require a reflective analysis of the observations of practice, critically analysing methods and approaches, making links to theory and research.