Online Master of Social Work (MSW)

Thank you for your participation in St. Bonaventure University’s Master of Social Work practicum supervisor program. The success of our program depends on the dedication of social work professionals like you who are interested in giving back by contributing to our students’ educational preparation.

This guide provides baseline information about the supervisor experience, including answers to a number of frequently asked questions. However, please feel free to reach out to your student’s faculty instructor should you need further information or have any additional questions.

Supervisor And Student Expectations

Supervisor Role

Supervisors are experienced social work professionals with the desire to give back to their profession by educating the next generation and agree to provide students with a positive learning environment using a variety of skills and educational opportunities. Supervisors serve as role models, showing professional behavior, demonstrating practice knowledge and expertise with ethics, laws and exposure to a variety of different practice areas.

As a supervisor you’ll be asked to provide constructive feedback to help your student maintain a safe learning environment and determine appropriate tasks/assignments for the student. Supervisorscollaborate and communicate with their students and St. Bonaventure faculty to ensure a satisfactory experience for all parties.

In what capacities will you serve as a supervisor?

• Teacher
• Coach
• Leader/Influencer
• Facilitator/Socialization Agent
• Evaluator
• Protector
• Role Model
• Practice Expert

Supervisor Responsibilities

As a supervisor, you will also have several responsibilities:

• Support and encourage to the student during the practicum experience
• Provide a variety of learning experiences within the field practicum setting
• Inform the student about policies, procedures, and guidelines
• Communicate with and expect the student to work on days/times according to your schedule throughout the experience together
• Notify the student of any schedule changes
• Support student development of skills and professional behaviors
• Maintain or review/co-sign the time log to document the student’s hours
• Report any issues, concerns, adverse events or unfavorable outcomes to the appropriate contact at St. Bonaventure in a timely manner
• Offer frequent feedback to the student on their performance, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement
• Notify the faculty if the student is not meeting objectives
• Complete evaluations as requested

Student Responsibilities

Students also have responsibilities to ensure a successful practicum experience: 

• Arrive on time and take breaks at an appropriate time
• Review personal goals for practicum with the supervisor, and revise if needed
• Develop an appropriate experiential schedule and complete times and dates as scheduled
• Plan dates and hours that do not conflict with classes
• Make the practicum schedule a priority and avoid outside conflicts
• Demonstrate an attitude of cooperation and willingness to learn
• Establish rapport with clients and families as appropriate
• Work as a team member
• Demonstrate effective communication with clients, staff members, and the supervisor
• Follow all site regulations and practice guidelines
• Immediately report any adverse events, issues or unfavorable outcomes to supervisor and faculty, depending on the issue
• Seek new learning experiences and request help when needed
• Accept guidance and suggestions with a positive attitude
• Improve skills, knowledge, and understanding of the professional social work role
• Notify the faculty and supervisor of emergency changes in schedule

Important Information Before The First Day

It is important to cover the following items with the student prior to the start of their practicum or during your first meeting:

• Shift schedule
• Required dress code based on student handbook and site policy
• Parking policy
• ID badge
• Computer access/training
• Expectations regarding timeliness, professionalism, preparedness, etc.
• Absence policy and expectations
• Current skill level and position in course progression
• Share desired main form of communication (email, text, phone, etc.)

MSW Practicum Preparation

Orientation Process

Each practicum setting may differ regarding the orientation process for students. Please coordinate with the faculty and site to ensure proper student orientation. On the first day of practicum, students need to be oriented by the supervisor .

Necessary Documentation

All documentation needed for supervisors will be handled by either the site or the administration office at St. Bonaventure University. We recommend supervisors check their email frequently to ensure further documentation or information is not needed.

Setting Expectations, Goals and Objectives

Course and practicum objectives will be provided by the faculty and should guide the student’s experience. For any unique practice sites additional learning objectives may be added to the learning experience.

At the beginning of the practicum, the student and supervisor should convene and discuss objectives. The supervisor should also inquire about other goals or objectives the student has for their practicum. This information helps the supervisor plan the experience and provide learning opportunities and student-specific instruction.

Formative Evaluation Process 

A crucial role of the supervisor is being an evaluator. On the first day of the practicum, explain to the students that feedback will be provided often throughout the experience. Providing feedback to students is necessary for their learning and growth.