Portfolio Assessment for Social Practice Module

PORTFOLIO ASSESSMENT FOR SOCIAL PRACTICE MODULE
Name of Student
Course
Name of Professor
University
Date
Portfolio Assessment for Social Practice Module
A Portfolio assessment is a compilation of a student's progress that experts can use to demonstrate an individual learner's efforts, development, and successes based on an established curriculum. This type of evaluation operates effectively based on the documents and any other supportive samples of work submitted by a student, which is used to issue the final evaluation merit of the documents and work samples relating to the outcomes being evaluated (Charteris and Thomas, 2017). This evaluation type is based on the Social Practice Theory, which emphasizes how social practices are embedded in the broader social, cultural, and historical context. It is used to analyze how people's behaviors and beliefs are shaped by the social and cultural practices in which they are embedded. Such an assessment can track and promote academic progress, including the learner's productivity in applying the school-acquired skills in real-life situations. Such evaluations, which incorporate a wide range of learning materials, also enable educators and researchers to look at the range of compound thinking and genuine concern abilities necessary for a student's exemplary performance (Syafei, 2012). These tests may disclose multiple components of the learning process, such as the development of cognitive abilities, strategies, and a student's ability to make appropriate decisions. Portfolio assessments are also more likely to be multi-dimensional than standard tests (Kabouha and Elyas, 2015). Portfolio tests can issue both qualitative and quantitative opportunities for evaluating toward reaching desired outcomes.
In the context of a social care practice module, a portfolio assessment allows individuals, especially students, to demonstrate their understanding and application of critical concepts and theories related to social work and social justice (Gopalan et al., 2012). This portfolio typically includes a collection of my best work that I picked to reflect my growth and development in the subject. In my portfolio, I have included several workpieces demonstrating my experience and abilities as a paid social worker: These materials include a case study I wrote as part of my training as a paid employee, which discusses the challenges and successes of working with an individual with complex needs and the strategies I used to support them. I gave this presentation to my colleagues as part of an internal staff training session, which discusses the importance of self-care and resilience in the social care profession and provides strategies for maintaining these qualities. Finally, I am learning more fundamental skills and abilities during practice, which will be significant in my career development. My portfolio provides a comprehensive overview of my experience and abilities as a salaried social care worker, demonstrates my commitment to providing high-quality support to individuals in need, and shows my preparedness to utilize what I learned in real-life settings.
Work Experience as a Social Care Worker. Case Study: Work Experience, a Paid Social Care Worker. As part of my training as a paid worker within my residential surrounding, I was assigned to work with an individual with complex needs. This individual, whom I will refer to as "Mr. Benson," had a history of cognitive health issues and drug and substance abuse. Working with Mr. Benson was a challenge. Such patients with mental conditions often resist treatment and face difficulty trusting and forming relationships with others (Ortiz-Gomez et al., 2014). Mr. Benson also struggled with impulse control and tended to act in harmful ways to himself and those around him.
Despite these challenges, I was determined to support Mr. Benson and help him make personal and positive transformations in his life. I worked closely with him to develop a treatment plan that met his individual needs and goals, and I provided regular feedback and support to help him stay on track. One of the key strategies I used to support Mr. Benson was building a friendly rapport with him. Forming this kind of rapport with an individual suffering from withdrawal symptoms, especially when suffering from mental illness, makes them develop a longer-lasting connection for a better medical observation period (Kaggwa et al., 2021). I took the time to get to know him and learn further about his interests, strengths, and challenges. Above all, I also actively listened to his concerns and validated his feelings. This behavior helped to build trust and foster a positive therapeutic relationship between Mr. Benson and me.
I also utilized many therapeutic interventions to support Mr. Benson. For example, I applied my knowledge of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help him identify and change negative thought patterns and habits. In addition, I employed motivational interviewing techniques to help him clarify his goals and develop the motivation to make positive changes (Cook et al., 2016). Summarizing, working with Mr. Benson was a challenging but rewarding experience. While he still struggles with some of his issues, he has made significant progress in his treatment and has begun to take steps toward a healthier and more fulfilling life. I am grateful for the opportunity to have supported Mr. Benson in his recovery journey.
As a paid social care worker in a residential setting, I have gained a wealth of experience working with individuals who require support with their daily living needs. Working in such a setting has allowed me to apply my knowledge and skills in various areas, including verbal and documented communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal relationships.
One of the significant strengths of serving as a paid social care worker is the level of responsibility and accountability that accompanies the role. As a paid worker, I am more accountable to my employer and patients. I have a legal and professional obligation to provide high-quality care and support (Grimshaw et al., 2017). This obligation can be challenging at times, but it also allows me to impact the lives of the individuals I look after significantly. For example, as a paid social care worker, I ensure that the individuals I look after get the care and support they need to live as independently as possible. This treatment may include assisting with personal care, preparing meals, and providing transportation to appointments (Blagoycheva et al., 2019). In addition, I am responsible for keeping accurate records of the care and support I provide and for reporting any concerns or issues to my supervisor.
Another advantage of working as a paid staff is the support and training, I receive. As a paid worker, I have access to ongoing professional development and training opportunities, which allows me to stay up-to-date with best practices and develop my skills and knowledge (Gadiraju et al., 2015). This development is essential for ensuring high-quality care and support for the individuals I assist. Organizations should implement regular training workshops and sessions to illustrate to their employees the importance of communication, person-centered care, and risk management. These workshops will ensure that workers stay up-to-date with practices in the ever-changing contemporary world (Brooks et al., 2017). These sessions provide me with the knowledge and skills I need to effectively support the individuals I am assigned. They also allow me to learn from the experiences and expertise of other professionals in the field.
As a paid social care worker, I can significantly impact the lives of the individuals I handle. Community care employees are responsible for providing their patients with the care and support they need to live as independently as possible and be able to advocate on their behalf when necessary (Taylor-Robinson et al., 2012). This activity is rewarding and gives me a sense of purpose and fulfilment in my work.
Another benefit of working as a paid social worker is the source and level of commitment. Paid social care workers are individuals who are paid for the work they do in providing social care services. A government agency, a non-profit organization, or a private company may employ these workers. They typically have some training and education in the social care field, and they may be required to have specific qualifications or licenses to provide their services.
The potential for job security is one of the significant benefits of working as a paid social worker. As the population grows and social issues become complex, there is an increasing need for qualified social workers to help address these issues and provide support to individuals, families, and communities (Hair, 2013). This demand is expected to grow in the coming years as the need for social services continues to increase. As a result, individuals who pursue a career in social work can expect to have a wide range of job opportunities available to them and feel confident that their skills and expertise will be in high demand.
Working as a social worker allows an individual to work with a diverse range of people and help address various social issues. Social workers often work with individuals, families, and communities from different backgrounds and with different needs, which can provide a rich and rewarding experience. For example, a social worker may work with children and families in a school setting, helping to support students and address issues such as bullying, academic challenges, or family conflict. They may also work with older adults, helping provide support and services to seniors who may face challenges such as loneliness, illness, or disability. Social workers may also work with individuals dealing with complex social issues, such as substance abuse, domestic violence, or homelessness. In all of these cases, social workers have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of the people they work with and help address a wide range of social issues. This activity can be a fulfilling and rewarding aspect of working as a social worker.
My experience as a paid social care worker has been both challenging and rewarding. Working as a social care employee has enabled me to develop skills and knowledge and to make a positive difference in the lives of the individuals I support (Kaehne, 2020). Although I find pride in my career growth at my present workplace, I also have many limitations.
Challenges Faced During My Practice as a Social Care Officer. One of the major drawbacks I face during my working time is working within a challenging or underfunded agency or organization. The social care in my residence is just a developing setup and could be better enabled financially. Working within a challenging or underfunded agency or organization can present many difficulties for salaried social workers (Knutsen and Chan, 2015). For example, such organizations may have limited resources, including funding, staff, and equipment, which can make it difficult for social workers to provide the level of support and services that their clients need. However, the unity that we have built as employees has enabled us to advocate harmoniously for change within the organization. Peaceful advocating for organizational cha...