Configuring Field, Practice and Field Education in Social Work

Abstract

Several inter-related terms, such as field, practice, field education, field work and practical training are used by social philosophers, scientists, educators and practitioners of human service professions. They have specific meanings in the context of their application. This paper explains the meanings of these terms and discusses their application in the context of professional training in social work. It also brings out the interrelationship between practice and theory, or the dialectical relationship and unity of theory and practice. The paper is based on a review of literature and also author’s own experience as social work educator.