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Social work scholar to present public lecture
Internationally acclaimed social work scholar and author Professor Jan Fook of London will deliver a public lecture at the University of the Sunshine Coast on Wednesday 29 September.
Professor Fook, who has pioneered critical reflection as a way of enhancing social work practice, will speak on the topic: “Social Work: What is it good for?”.
The Australian-born scholar is a Professor of Professional Practice Research and Director of the Interprofessional Institute at the South West London Academic Network. She has been a social worker and educator for almost 30 years.
USC’s Senior Lecturer in Social Work Dr Christine Morley said the lecture from 3-4pm would appeal to social work practitioners, USC academics and students and the general public.
“Critical reflection is about ongoing professional learning, so it is applicable to any discipline and professional who wants to maintain currency in their field,” she said.
“While Professor Fook initially developed the practice of critical reflection for social work, it is now being used across a broad range of disciplines including counselling, human services, nursing, occupational therapy and business.”
Dr Morley said the public lecture was an example of USC’s commitment to provide forums that offered professional development and inspiration for local practitioners.
She said USC students also would benefit from attending as they would be able to “put a face to the name” they’ve seen on so many social work textbooks.
“It will be a privilege for students to see Professor Fook present, not simply because she is an eminent, distinguished scholar, but because her work directly informs the commitments embedded in our social work and human services programs at USC,” she said.
“Critical reflection takes a central place in our curriculum, and it will be a wonderful opportunity for students to meet the person who is formative in our thinking about it.”
For further information about the public lecture contact Dr Christine Morley on (07) 5459 4723 or email <cmorley@usc.edu.au>.
— Terry Walsh