THE RESEARCH AND PRACTICE IMPLEMENTATION IN THE EDUCATION SYSTEM OF SOCIAL WORKERS (THROUGH THE EXAMPLE OF FINLAND)

Abstract

This article deals with the historical aspects of the implementation of the research and practical approach in the education system of social workers. The author shows the specifics of Finnish educational practice and defines the main characteristics, tasks and goals of the social workers training system. She also stresses problem areas of the innovative theories and practices implementation process into the Finnish education system.

Modern world trends and changes in the society indicate the need for new approaches to the education of social workers who are constantly involved in finding ways to solve social problems of different nature. The aspect of improving training programs and social work as a whole, requires that social work professionals should understand local trends, and also approach social problems from a global perspective.

The author stresses, that the new education models should based on empirical knowledge, due to work out solutions of the main social problems. Despite the existence of projects for the development of integration and the use of theses in practice, current realities show an inadequate level of readiness of specialists in the social sphere for timely intervention and solving social problems. In order to provide a quick and successful response to emerging social problems, it is necessary to rethink some traditional paradigms and provide a combination of practice and research in the context of training specialists. That vocational training should guarantee a knowledge base for activities that provides opportunities for developing new methods in the field of social work. This process depends on many factors, such as social, economic, cultural change in the society. Education and practice in social work have always been an inseparable component of training for social workers. In accordance with the fieldwork and the results of the theses, the students built a strategy of practice and research integration.