Conservative voices in social work education: a transformative approach to the classroom

Abstract

The concept of ‘use of self’ is vital in social work education, balancing theory and practice to promote inclusivity and diversity. However, conservative students, particularly those with theistic or right-leaning perspectives, often experience dissonance when their views are dismissed or undervalued in classroom settings. This dissonance highlights a gap in addressing diversity within spirituality, religion, and political ideology. Social work education often emphasizes the integration of religion and spirituality but lacks adequate training to support students who prioritize these values. This omission perpetuates biases and stereotypes, hindering efforts to combat oppression and fostering a sense of exclusion for some students. In this discussion, a transformative framework offers practical steps to navigate these challenges by encouraging educators to critically examine their biases and integrate diverse viewpoints into classroom discussions. Embracing political and religious diversity can promote critical thinking, self-reflection, and a holistic approach to inclusivity, ensuring that all students feel valued and empowered to engage authentically within the profession.

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