The Reflective Researcher: Social Workers' Theories of Practice Research

Abstract

How do we reconcile the gap between research theory and the reality of social work practice? How can a social work research methodology be developed which is relevant to the workplace? This innovative collection approaches social work research from the 'bottom' up. Instead of starting with theory, it starts with practice, showing how a research methodology can be developed from actual experience. Using a 'reflective' approach, The Reflective Researcher demonstrates a variety of ways of working with research methods and theory. The contributors deal with both qualitative and quantitative methods, and show how a range of theories including feminism and poststructuralism can be integrated into research. Written in an unpretentious and engaging style, The Reflective Researcher is a valuable reference for social work practitioners, researchers and students. Jan Fook lectures in the Graduate School of Social Work at La Trobe University, Melbourne. She is the author of Radical Casework. The Reflective Researcher will encourage social workers and researchers alike to explore the fruitful relationship between research based practice and practice based research. Professor Juliet Cheetham, University of Stirling reverses the dominant hierarchical relation between 'theory' and 'practice' and demonstrates in a clear and liberating way how the subjugated knowledge of social work practitioners can challenge scientistic and deductive thinking. Professor Peter Leonard, McGill University.

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