The Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Fieldwork Practice & and Supervision  is the  only professionally recognised,   post qualifying course for social workers  in the Republic of Ireland.  The course commenced in 2001, and to date has approximately 70 graduates located in social work agencies throughout Ireland. The course is designed in accordance with a reflective model of teaching  and learning. Dr Carmel Halton  is currently undertaking a NAIRTL funded research project (5,000 euro)  to  ascertain the benefits/otherwise of this approach to teaching and learning  in the classroom and beyond into the field, where participants are engaged in mentoring and supervising students on professional social work placements.  The possible contribution that the reflective process makes to social workers ongoing professional development is being investigated. The potential role of the Postgraduate Diploma  in terms of promoting a culture of continuing professional development/inquiry within social work organisations is also being examined. The research began in October 2009 and is due for for completion in December 2010. Publications will follow.   

Contact Dr. Carmel Halton for further information: CHalton@AppSocStud.ucc.ie