Training for Field Instructors and Supervisors
Field Instructors and Task Supervisors are the foundation of MSW student field education. Field supervisors share the responsibility with school faculty in preparing students (and future colleagues) for professional social work practice. Because of the critical nature of this function, ongoing training and support for field instructors and task supervisors are field program priorities.
All field instructors and task supervisors are expected to attend field orientation at the beginning of the academic year - usually late in August, or in May, for summer block placements.
New field instructors are expected to complete new field instructor training in the first year of providing supervision. Both field orientation and training for first-time field instructors are required by the Council on Social Work Education. Task supervisors and "refreshing" field instructors are warmly encouraged to attend new field instructor training anytime. The links below will give you additional information on required training sessions, field-related resources, and field instructor privileges through the University of Minnesota.