The Task-Centered Model for Field Instruction: An Innovative Approach

Although the practicum is a central component of social work education, it is rarely offered in a clearly structured manner that systematically operationalizes the principles of effective field education. This article describes a task-centered model for field instruction that provides discrete guidelines for those who supervise students in the field. The model offers strategies for setting and achieving target goals through a collaborative teaching-learning process. Evaluation of the field trial, recommendations for future development of the model, and potential applications are also discussed.