Role-play in social work education: Process and framework for a constructive and focused approach

For many years, social work educators have employed simulation in the form of role-play to provide students with opportunities for practical experience. This paper presents a brief overview and analysis of the development of role-play as a learning device for students in acquiring the knowledge, values and skills of social work practice. How role-play works as a learning device is explained through an adapted simulation game model. The model is used to provide a framework for a constructive learning experience and the importance of focus in underpinning a competency-based approach is emphasised. The teaching process, which includes creating a safe environment, identifying learning needs, role-play design and ground-rules for enactment, observation and feedback, is analysed and implementation issues are addressed.