Using Language, Fiction, and Story in Social Work Education

This book provides an accessible, research-informed text for social work educators, students, and practitioners interested in using story to connect human experiences with ideas, theories, and skills. It explores how fiction has been used as a teaching tool in other degrees and how it can create a 'safe space for the exploration of complex emotional terrain. Practice examples and author conversations are included to locate the research into a practice context.

Format: Hardback
Length: 164 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book offers a valuable resource for social work educators, students, and practitioners who are interested in leveraging the power of storytelling to connect human experiences with ideas, theories, and skills. With a broad perspective, it explores the diverse applications of fiction as a teaching tool across various disciplines, including medicine, engineering, philosophy, and economics. While the research primarily focuses on social work, this text is highly relevant to educators seeking innovative approaches to teaching complex theories, skills, and concepts.

The book demonstrates how fiction can be effectively used in social work education, emphasizing its significance in the field and its ability to replicate real-life stories. It also delves into the capacity of fiction to evoke empathy, a crucial aspect of social work practice. By exploring various strategies, the book empowers educators to create a safe space for students to explore complex emotional terrain. Furthermore, it discusses the potential of fiction to foster a sense of community among practitioners through shared experiences and narratives.

Throughout each chapter, practical examples and author conversations are integrated to contextualize the research within a practice setting. These insights provide valuable guidance for those who wish to further explore this pedagogical approach. The book concludes with inspiring examples of how authors have successfully employed fiction to enhance learning and engagement.

In summary, this book serves as a valuable guide for social work educators and practitioners who are eager to incorporate storytelling into their teaching practices. By leveraging the power of fiction, educators can create engaging and effective learning experiences that help students connect with complex concepts and develop essential skills.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032077727