Decolonising social work practice field education: A scoping review

Michelle Jones (Lead Author), Ann Anka, Einav Segev, Nuzha Allassad Alhuzail, Omar Mohamed, Michael Wallengren-Lynch, Luke Cantley, Nishi Mitra vom Berg, Samantha Laver, Libby Hammond, Henglien Lisa Chen

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Abstract

Decolonisation is redressing colonial legacies and reaffirming self-determination. Understandings of decolonisation in social work field education literature were examined using a social justice lens. This scoping review combined systematic database searching with decolonising methods including relational searches. Data synthesis included thematic and deductive analysis to critical frameworks. The 43 studies included were primarily English-speaking and post-2010. Themes emphasised integrating Indigenous knowledge, challenging White dominance, reconstructing spaces, promoting critical reflection, and understanding socio-political contexts. Analysis highlighted the need for ameliorative and transformative change. Cultural and epistemic injustices embedded in social work field education marginalise non-White social work students. If unaddressed, harmful practices will be perpetuated.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages19
JournalInternational Social Work
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 9 Jan 2025

Keywords

  • decolonisation
  • social work field education
  • clinical practicum
  • human rights
  • Indigenous peoples
  • social justice
  • social work
  • teaching
  • Clinical practicum

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