Predictors of Satisfaction with Field Practicum Among Social Work Students

Practicum is essential to professional social work education. What makes this intense learning experience satisfactory to students? One hundred forty-two graduate social work students specializing in direct practice were studied to determine factors associated with satisfaction. Contributing most to satisfaction were students' perceptions of the quality of field instruction, the desirability of and involvement in the agency, and didactic explanations for the field instructor. The findings highlight the importance of accessible supportive supervision, active learning, and feedback and conceptual input into student learning.