Practitioner Evaluation

Abstract

Practitioner evaluation: the idea that practitioners themselves undertake a systematic study of their own practice has been encouraged for a long time as an applied social work and health practice research strategy. It is viewed as an opportunity for practitioners to take advantage of the availability of information of data within their organisations; to reflect on the effectiveness of their work with clients without the need for a major research project; it is cost effective research; and it helps professionals bridge the gaps between research, practice and theory. In this piece I intend to outline what practitioner evaluation is, some opportunities and constraints of undertaking evaluative work, and consider some applications to social work practice; making a case throughout of the importance of practitioner evaluation as an ongoing and integrated activity into the daily lives of practitioners. Practitioners, incidentally, are not assumed to be only social workers: potentially a variety of statutory, voluntary and private welfare or care related staff may undertake practitioner evaluation.