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Workforce & Training - Results (37 Publications)

Title: Progress of the New Jersey Department of Children and Families: Monitoring Report for Charlie and Nadine H. v. Corzine, July 1 - December 31, 2007.
Published: 2008
Available from: Center for the Study of Social Policy (CSSP)
http://www.cssp.org/

1575 Eye Street N.W., Suite 500
Washington, DC 20005
Printable version (PDF): http://cssp.org/uploadFiles/FINAL%20NJ%20REPORT%20Apr%202008.pdf
Abstract: This is the third monitoring report under the Monitored Settlement Agreement (MSA) for the New Jersey court case of Charlie and Nadine H. v. Corzine and covers the period of July 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007. It reflects the State's continued work in and commitment to ensuring children are healthy and safe, children achieve permanency and stability, and resource and service delivery systems meet children's health, mental health, educational, and developmental needs. It also describes the Department of Children and Family's beginning efforts to train its workforce on the new Case Practice Model (CPM), a central element of New Jersey's child welfare reforms. Following an explanation of the methodology of the evaluation, Section 2 of the report provides overall conclusions and a summary of the State's progress in meeting the MSA requirements through December 31, 2007. Additional sections provide specific information on the requirements of the MSA in the areas of: continuing to build a high quality workforce and management infrastructure, changing practice to support children and families, appropriate placements and services for children, and meeting the health and mental health needs of children. Findings from the evaluation indicate the Department continued to develop the infrastructure it needs to promote and sustain reform, the Department continued its work to promote and support a consistent model of case practice that is intended to improve outcomes for children and families, significant progress was made on increasing appropriate placement and other resources for children throughout the State, the State exceeded its goals for the successful adoption of children requiring permanent homes, and the early work of the Differential Response pilot programs and the expanded network of Family Success Centers promises to create new avenues to support children and families and to avoid formal child welfare intervention. Additional challenges in reform efforts are discussed. 19 tables and 16 figures.

Title: Case Management Optimization: Analysis of Current Case Management System.
Published: 2008
Available from: Texas Health and Human Services Commission
http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/
Brown-Heatly Building
4900 North Lamar Boulevard
7th Floor
Austin, TX 78751
Printable version (PDF): http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/about_hhsc/reports/CaseManagement_Analysis.pdf
Abstract: This report discusses the outcomes of a review and analysis of current health and human services enterprise case management services in Texas. The review included interviews with state staff and program managers and advocates, focus groups, and surveys of consumers and case management staff. In addition, program documents were reviewed, including program manuals, Medicaid State Plan amendments and waiver documents, as well as previous Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) reports. The report provides a summary of each HHS program providing case management services and findings related to key features of these programs. It also includes a summary of the major themes that emerged during focus groups with case managers and consumers, and results and analysis of the focus groups in the Stakeholder Involvement Report. Findings indicate: many of the case management programs reviewed define case management services differently; the lack of uniform data creates difficulty in comparing utilization, consumers of case management services, and expenditures across programs; there are variations in caseloads and qualifications for case managers or those who perform case management type functions across the departments; the level of coordination between programs, departments, and other organizations varies widely; geographic issues appear to primarily impact the services that case managers authorize for their clients; and consumers and case managers are both concerned about duplication in the areas of intake and assessment. The report concludes that the variation between case management services across programs serving similar populations may create inefficiencies for HHSC and create service difficulties for HHSC clients. In addition, there may be potential for confusion on the part of providers, State staff, and clients. Appendices present several tables that summarize programs in terms of expenditures and utilization. Additionally, appendices include summaries of the populations served, service providers and caseload.

Title: Case Management Optimization: Best Practices and Emerging Trends in Case Management.
Published: 2008
Available from: Texas Health and Human Services Commission
http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/
Brown-Heatly Building
4900 North Lamar Boulevard
7th Floor
Austin, TX 78751
Printable version (PDF): http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/about_hhsc/reports/CaseManagement_BestPractices.pdf
Abstract: The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) contracted with Navigant Consulting, Inc. for assistance in the optimization of the State's case management services. This report highlights best practices and emerging trends in case management in other States and the commercial sector for HHSC to consider. To identify best practices and emerging trends, a literature search was conducted that included case management organizations' websites, Federal and State reports and websites, as well as relevant journals. Professional experience and interviews with State representatives also informed the findings. Section 1 of the report discusses findings related to the definition of case management, Social Security Act provisions for case management, Deficit Reduction Act provisions for case management, case manager qualifications, outcomes, and payments for services. Section 2 discusses findings from public sector case management models, including single entry point systems, "no wrong door" systems, long-term care programs, and integrated funding models. The final section highlights best practices and emerging trends in private sector case management models and describes case management and care coordination, and the use of a consumer-driven approach. The implementation of the Texas Real Choice System Change grant, as well as the Texas ADRC project, is also discussed. 89 references.

Title: Transitions and Endings: A Training Programme.
Author(s): Cairns, Kate.;Fursland, Eileen.
Published: 2008
Available from: British Association for Adoption & Fostering (BAAF)
http://www.baaf.org.uk/
Skyline House, 200 Union Street
London SE1 0LX
Abstract: This manual presents a training program designed to help social workers, staff in residential homes, foster carers, and adoptive families support traumatized children who are going through changes in their lives. The course looks at planned and unplanned transitions and endings and how these can impact the child, the carer, and the network of people around them. The program is intended to be presented in three sessions with groups of between 8 and 20 participants. The manual begins with an explanation of the training and strategies for running training groups. Chapter 1 then presents the first session on resilience and transitions. Information is provided on socially, culturally, and individually determined transitions, attachment and patterns of transition, secure and insecure attachment, assessing transition history, permanence planning and transition, individual and social resilience, trauma and secondary trauma, and thoughts and feelings about planned and unplanned transitions. Chapter 2 presents the second session on promoting successful transitions and constructive endings. It addresses the process of grieving and the factors affecting grieving, those who might experience loss and grief when a child moves on, how key people can offer support, and strategies for promoting the understanding of the needs of children and carers in the support network. The final chapter presents the third session on managing unplanned transitions and endings. It discusses how a child's narrative is formed, how to help a child to create a positive script around transitions and endings, how the support network can manage transitions and disruptions as effectively and positively as possible, and how to promote understanding of the importance of placement stability and skilled management of disruptions. Each of the sessions includes talking points for the PowerPoint presentation on the included CD-ROM, as well as numerous exercises and reflective questions. 12 references.

Title: Lessons from Research on Decision Making. (Chapter 11 in Child Welfare Research: Advances for Practice and Policy.)
Author(s): Munro, Eileen.
Published: 2008
Available from: Oxford University Press
http://www.oup.com/us/
198 Madison Ave.
New York, NY 10016-4314
Abstract: This chapter analyzes the problematic nature of individual decision-making strategies as they relate to key child welfare judgments, identifies common errors in decision-making, describes the difference between probabilistic and expert decision making, and provides guidance on how and when to use each approach. 19 references.

Title: Systems Issues Related to Reporting and Evaluating Caseworker Visits.
Published: 2008
Available from: Children's Bureau
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/
Administration on Children, Youth and Families
1250 Maryland Avenue, SW, Eighth Floor
Washington, DC 20024
Document available online at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/systems/sacwis/bulletin2.htm
Printable version (PDF): http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/systems/sacwis/bulletin2.pdf
Abstract: This document provides valuable guidance to States on systems issues related to the collection and reporting of information on caseworker visits with children in foster care. It is intended to assist States' child welfare program, data, and systems staff in considering how best to align their information system activities to support the caseworker visit data requirements mandated by the Child and Family Services Improvement Act of 2006 (P.L. 109-288) and incorporated in statute at section 424(e)(1) and (2) of the Social Security Act (the Act). It also provides a list of considerations should a State choose to expand its data collection activities beyond the Federal requirements into program analyses that may support monitoring activities, including the Child and Family Services Reviews (CFSR) or other quality assurance activities designed to assure the safety, permanency and well-being of children and families. (Author abstract)

Title: Experiencing Social Work: Learning from Service Users.
Author(s): Doel, Mark.;Best, Lesley.
Published: 2008
Available from: Sage Publications
http://www.sagepub.com
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Abstract: This book is a compilation of the positive experiences of individuals in the United Kingdom who have used social work services. The stories in each chapter discuss good practices, reflect on the lessons learned, and explore the potential for positive change and social justice. Case examples are provided from a wide range of service user groups, including people with mental health problems, disabilities, and parenting difficulties, those living in care, and those experiencing loss and other life transitions. Following each narrative, commentaries are given on the core themes and issues from each example in order to understand the service user's experience and learn from it. In addition, examples of how social work students have contributed to positive change in the lives of service users are included. Numerous references.

Title: From Foster Family to Forever Family [e-learning].
Published: 2008
Available from: Adoption Learning Partners
http://www.adoptionlearningpartners.org
Document available online at: http://www.adoptionlearningpartners.org/courses/ff2ff.cfm
Abstract: This course provides an interactive overview of the process of adopting one's foster child. This course will help you: * Understand the entire process of adopting your foster child. * Prepare yourself and family for the transition to adoptive family. * Guide your decision-making with interactive exercises designed to assist you in your mental and emotional preparation for adoption. * Prepare you with checklists and exercises to make the most of your time with your adoption professionals. * Become aware of the truth surrounding most common myths and misconceptions regarding adopting children from the foster care system. * Identify the post-adoption resources available for your family. (Author abstract)

Title: Case Management Optimization: Recommendations for Improving Texas Case Management Delivery.
Published: 2008
Available from: Texas Health and Human Services Commission
http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/
Brown-Heatly Building
4900 North Lamar Boulevard
7th Floor
Austin, TX 78751
Printable version (PDF): http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/about_hhsc/reports/CaseManagement_Recommendations.pdf
Abstract: The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) contracted with Navigant Consulting, Inc. for assistance in the optimization of the State's case management services. This report discusses recommendations for improving the delivery of case management services in Texas. The recommendations are based on professional experiences, findings related to an analysis of the current case management system in Texas, research into best practices and emerging trends in case management, and stakeholder input obtained through focus groups, interviews and surveys. Findings indicate the current system creates an environment where an individual may access the system at different points for different needs, may encounter duplicative intake processes, and may be involved with multiple case managers who lack sufficient tools to coordinate and communicate with each other. Key recommendations include: develop a common baseline service definition for "case management" across the systems and consider changing the term to "service coordination"; develop guidelines for a tiered qualification system and caseloads for case managers that link case manager qualifications to the consumer's need for levels of intensity and specialized interventions; develop a uniform protocol for initial screening, triage, referral as a basic tool to carry out improved case management responsibilities and reduce inefficiency and ineffectiveness in the system; integrate management information systems across the various departments to facilitate the sharing of data between departments and to standardize the collection and reporting of appropriate data for tracking and monitoring financial performance and outcomes measures; and develop a uniform reimbursement methodology. Additional recommendations are discussed for integrating case management services, and potential barriers and implications for the implementation of the recommendations are addressed. Numerous tables and 37 references.

Title: Case Management Optimization: Waiver Feasibility Assessment.
Published: 2008
Available from: Texas Health and Human Services Commission
http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/
Brown-Heatly Building
4900 North Lamar Boulevard
7th Floor
Austin, TX 78751
Printable version (PDF): http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/about_hhsc/reports/CaseManagement_Waiver.pdf
Abstract: A study was conducted to determine the feasibility of combining under a single 1115 or 1915(c) federal waiver, utilization management, case management, care coordination, high-cost targeting, provider incentives, and other quality and cost control measures implemented with respect to the Medicaid program. To determine the feasibility of using a federal waiver, Navigant Consulting considered the results of several earlier project tasks, including: a summary of best practices in case management used by other States and other payers; an analysis of current case management systems; a review of stakeholder comments on reports, stakeholders' surveys and focus groups results; and the development of recommendations to optimize case management activities. The study concluded that a waiver program to combine the services into a single program is neither feasible nor necessary to achieve key objectives. The case is made that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service (CMS) is unlikely to approve a cross-disability waiver and that even if such a waiver received federal approval, it would involve creating an organization that would be responsible for the consolidated activities and would require major systems changes and additional administrative burden. An initial integration of all health and human services enterprise case management and care coordination services is recommended to provide the Texas Health and Human Services Commission with a basis for further development and consolidation of other functions such as utilization management, provider incentive practices, and high-cost targeting. Background information on cost containment and quality practices as defined within the private and public sectors is provided, as well as information on federal regulations governing the 1115 and 1915(c) waivers and the scope of different waiver categories, the methodology of the study, and conclusions from the study.

Title: Prevention of Behavior Problems for Children in Foster Care: Outcomes and Mediation Effects.
Author(s): Chamberlain, Patricia.;Price, Joe.;Leve, Leslie D.;Laurent, Heidemarie.;Landsverk, John A.;Reid, John B.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Prevention Science
v. 9, 1, March 2008, p. 17-27
Available from: Springer
http://www.springer.com/
233 Spring Street
New York, NY 10013
Abstract: Parent training for foster parents is mandated by federal law and supported by state statues in nearly all states; however, little is known about the efficacy of that training, and recent reviews underscore that the most widely used curricula in the child welfare system (CWS) have virtually no empirical support. On the other hand, numerous theoretically based, developmentally sensitive parent training interventions have been found to be effective in experimental clinical and prevention intervention trials. One of these, Multidimensional Treatment Foster Care, has been used with foster parents of youth referred from juvenile justice. The effectiveness of a universal intervention, KEEP (Keeping Foster Parents Trained and Supported) based on MTFC (but less intensive) was tested in a universal randomized trial with 700 foster and kinship parents in the San Diego County CWS. The goal of the intervention was to reduce child problem behaviors through strengthening foster parents' skills. The trial was designed to examine effects on both child behavior and parenting practices, allowing for specific assessment of the extent to which improvements in child behavior were mediated by the parenting practices targeted in the intervention. Child behavior problems were reduced significantly more in the intervention condition than in the control condition, and specific parenting practices were found to mediate these reductions, especially for high-risk children in foster families reporting more than six behavior problems per day at baseline. (Author abstract)

Title: Use of Practice Skills: Engagement and Ongoing Work with Adolescents. (Chapter 3 of Theory and Practice with Adolescents)
Author(s): McKenzie, Fred R.
Published: 2008
Available from: Lyceum Books, Inc.
http://www.lyceumbooks.com/
5758 S. Blackstone
Chicago, IL 60637
Abstract: This chapter emphasizes the need for practitioners to form an empathic connection with adolescents and their families to be successful in helping adolescents. Theoretical underpinnings for the development of listening skills are discussed, as well as the concept of the clinical practice template, engagement techniques and considerations, and manifest and latent content of discussions with adolescents. Strategies for gathering information through the discussion of family, peers, school, and other interests are shared, and a case example and discussion is provided. A list of recommended resources is included.

Title: NASW Cultural Competence Indicators: A New Tool for the Social Work Profession.
Author(s): Simmons, Clara S.;Diaz, Leticia.;Jackson, Vivian.;Takahashi, Rita.;
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Journal of ethnic and cultural diversity in social work.
v. 17, 1, 2008, p. 4-20
Available from: Taylor & Francis Group, LLC
http://www.taylorandfrancis.com
325 Chestnut Street
Suite 800
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Abstract: This article details the development of the Cultural Competence Indicators for the Achievement of the NASW Standards for Cultural Competence in Social Work: its challenges, opportunities, and accomplishments. It describes the impetus for crafting the Standards and how that process lead to the design of the Indicators. Just as the achievement of cultural competence is a process, the Indicators represent a second phase in producing an instrument to realize that goal. This paper reviews the Indicator's importance to the profession and delineates elements that future work should address. (Author abstract)

Title: Caring for Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children and Young People from Somalia.
Published: 2008
Available from: British Association for Adoption & Fostering (BAAF)
http://www.baaf.org.uk/
Skyline House, 200 Union Street
London SE1 0LX
Abstract: Intended for foster care parents or residential care staff in the United Kingdom, this pamphlet discusses why unaccompanied Somali children and young people seek asylum, the impact of the refugee experience on children and young people, and ways to meet the needs of unaccompanied refugee youth. It reviews the situation in Somalia, including the economy, social structure, religion, Somali society, risks to children, rights of women, the health status of Somalis, education, and Somali food. The challenges young Somalis face when arriving in the United Kingdom are described, and strategies are offered for making the transition easier. A list of Somali community organizations is also provided.

Title: Caring for Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children and Young People from China.
Published: 2008
Available from: British Association for Adoption & Fostering (BAAF)
http://www.baaf.org.uk/
Skyline House, 200 Union Street
London SE1 0LX
Abstract: Intended for foster care parents or residential care staff in the United Kingdom, this pamphlet discusses why unaccompanied Chinese children and young people seek asylum, the impact of the refugee experience on children and young people, and ways to meet the needs of unaccompanied refugee youth. It reviews characteristics of life in China, including political and social restrictions, religion, language, family dynamics, attitudes toward women, education, the health status of the Chinese, types of food, and leisure activities. The challenges young Chinese face when arriving in the United Kingdom are described, and strategies are offered for making the transition easier. A list of Chinese community organizations is also provided.

Title: Working With Sexually Abused Children.
Author(s): Pistorius, Kinsey Drouet.;Feinauer, Leslie L.;Harper, James M.;Stahmann, Robert F.;Miller, Richard B.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: American Journal of Family Therapy
v. 36, 3, May 2008, p. 181-195
Available from: Routledge -- Taylor and Francis Group
http://www.routledge.com
7625 Empire Drive
Florence, KY 41042
Abstract: Analysis of qualitative interviews with ten female therapists who were currently working with sexually abused children resulted in two major themes. The themes included the impact of working with sexually abused children on the therapist's personal and professional life and coping with stresses associated with working with sexually abused children. The major finding in study was the relationship between the therapists' ability to work effectively with abused children and having strong personal and professional support networks, therapist psychotherapy, colleague group interactions, debriefing/supervision sessions, and increased training. These themes are explored in depth, recommendations and implications for therapists in this field are provided. (Author abstract)

Title: Building Effective Training Systems for Child Welfare Agencies.
Author(s): Kanak, Susan.;Baker, Maureen.;Herz, Lori.;Maciolek, Susan.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Child Welfare Resource Center for Organizational Improvement.
http://muskie.usm.maine.edu/helpkids/
Muskie School-USM
P.O. Box 15010
400 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04112-5010
Printable version (PDF): http://muskie.usm.maine.edu/helpkids/rcpdfs/Trainingassess_B060056.pdf
Abstract: This guide provides an analytic framework for child welfare agencies or Tribal leadership teams to build a shared understanding of and commitment to the value, role, capacity, and development of their training systems. It identifies principles for assessing the extent to which your training system delivers the services and products (i.e., formal and informal instruction, learning opportunities, and professional development) of a mature system; describes the life cycle of a training system's structure as well as the components and indicators of and strategies for developing a mature structure; and describes a process for conducting a training system assessment. An addendum to the guide presents a model for a training workshop on the value, content, and approach for conducting an assessment of the training system. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Child Welfare Worker Characteristics and Job Satisfaction: A National Study.
Author(s): Barth, Richard P.;Lloyd, E. Christopher.;Christ, Sharon L.;Chapman, Mimi V.;Dickinson, Nancy S.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: Social Work
v. 53, 3, July 2008, p. 199-209
Available from: National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
http://www.socialworkers.org/
750 First Street, NE
Suite 700
Washington, DC 20002-4241
Printable version (PDF): http://www.olc.edu/~jolson/socialwork/OnlineLibrary/Barth%20et%20al%20(2008)%20Child%20welfare%20worker%20characteristics%20and%20job%20satisfaction%20-%20A%20national%20study.pdf
Abstract: The education, recruitment, training, and retention of a quality child welfare workforce is critical to the successful implementation of public policy and programs for the nation's most vulnerable children. Yet, national information about child welfare workers has never been collected. The National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being is a study of children who are investigated for child maltreatment that also offers information about the child welfare workers (unweighted N = 1,729) who serve them in 36 states and 92 counties. These cases represent the national population of child welfare workers, estimated at more than 50,000, serving children approximately 12 months after a case was opened. Child welfare workers having any graduate or social work degree in a nonurban setting were more satisfied than their peers. Regression results indicate that worker satisfaction is associated with quality of supervision and urban setting but does not have a clearly independent relationship with having a degree in social work. Practice implications are discussed. (Author abstract)

Title: Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Child Sexual Abuse (including, Child Abuse in Our Communities; Recognizing the Signs of Sexual Abuse; and Handling Disclosures and Reporting Abuse).
Published: 2008
Available from: Child Development Media
http://www.childdevmedia.com/
5632 Van Nuys Blvd., Suite 286
Van Nuys, CA 91401
Abstract: This video program trains teachers, daycare workers, and other professional caregivers on their legal and ethical responsibility as mandated reporters of child abuse, with a strong emphasis placed on child sexual abuse. Caregivers today are expected to answer questions such as: How can you tell when a child is being abused? When does corporal punishment rise to the level of abuse? How can you tell if a child is being neglected? How can you recognize the signs of mental or sexual abuse? When must you report a situation to the authorities? Who should you contact? This series answers these questions and provides professional caregivers with effective methods for identifying and reporting signs of child abuse. This set also includes comprehensive descriptions of the different types of abuse as well as guidelines on how to handle disclosures and documentation for child abuse cases. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Four Areas of Support for Child and Youth Care Workers.
Author(s): Krueger, Mark.
Published: 2007
Journal Name: Families in Society
v. 88, 2, April-June 2007, p. 233-240
Available from: Families in Society
http://www.familiesinsociety.org
11700 West Lake Park Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53224-3099
Printable version (PDF): http://www.familiesinsociety.org/Show.asp?override=true&docid=3621
Abstract: Developing a competent staff of child and youth care workers is a major challenge for most group care programs for children, youth, and families. Factors such as low pay, lack of preparation, and demanding working conditions have contributed to creating a workforce crisis. Several studies have been conducted to help mitigate the problems. Many of these studies and experience point to daily interactions as a major source of learning and satisfaction. In this article, with an emphasis on the parallel processes of child and youth care and staff development, the I draw on the literature and more than 35 years of experience in child and youth care to construct a narrative that discusses how care of self, participation, mentoring, and atmosphere contribute to successful daily interactions. The purpose is to encourage discourse, continued discussion, and action. (Author abstract)

Title: Assessment in Social Work: A Guide for Learning and Teaching.
Author(s): Whittington, Colin.
Published: 2007
Available from: Social Care Institute for Excellence
http://www.scie.org.uk
Goldings House
2 Hay's Lane
London
Printable version (PDF): http://www.scie.org.uk/publications/resourceguides/rg08/files/rg08.pdf
Abstract: This resource guide is aimed primarily at social work educators. The guide uses existing SCIE resources on assessment to: (1) examine aspects of assessment in social work; (2) consider approaches to teaching and learning of assessment; (3) pose issues and questions for social work educators to consider when planning and reviewing teaching and learning of assessment. (Author abstract)

Title: Promoting Structured Clinical Casework Supervision in Public Child Welfare: Curriculum Outlines and Selected Materials.
Author(s): Collins-Camargo, Crystal.
Published: 2006
Available from: Child Welfare Information Gateway
http://www.childwelfare.gov
Children's Bureau/ACYF
1250 Maryland Avenue, SW
Eighth Floor
Washington, DC 20024
Abstract: The Southern Regional Quality Improvement Center (SR QIC) was funded beginning in 2001 for a five year period to be implemented by the University of Kentucky College of Social Work. The SR QIC partnership includes public child welfare agencies, universities and community partners in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia. The focus of the SR QIC is the enhancement of casework supervision. Over the past four years the SR QIC has been working within a ten State region to evaluate whether the use of structured methods of clinical casework supervision in child protection positively impacts organizational culture, worker practice in assessment and intervention, preventable worker turnover, and client outcomes in four States: Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee. This document provides outlines of the educational processes that each of these four projects implemented to develop the knowledge and skills in supervisors needed to promote a structured clinical casework supervision approach. Training materials, learning modules, materials for on-line tutorials, and supervisory tools developed by the projects are included. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Supporting and Improving the Child Welfare Workforce: A Review of Program Improvement Plans (PIPs) and Recommendations for Strengthening the Child and Family Service Reviews (CFSRs).
Published: 2006
Available from: Children's Defense Fund
http://www.childrensdefense.org
25 E Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
Printable version (PDF): http://www.childrensdefense.org/child-research-data-publications/data/supporting-and-improving-the-child-welfare-workforce.pdf
Abstract: A supported, skilled, and informed workforce is central to improving outcomes for children and families in the child welfare system. The Children's Defense Fund (CDF) and Children's Rights are engaged with a number of national partners to develop federal policy recommendations designed to improve the quality of the child welfare workforce, with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes for children and families that come in contact with the child welfare system. As part of this work, CDF and Children's Rights reviewed the extent to which workforce issues were being identified and addressed by states as part of the federal Child and Family Service Reviews (CFSRs) and Program Improvements Plans (PIPs) that all states were required by federal law to complete. This paper provides the results of the review of the PIPs in 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. (Author abstract)

Title: It Takes a Village: Mobilizing Urban Communities for Improved Child Welfare Services. (Chapter 12 in Children in the Urban Environment: Linking Social Policy and Clinical Practice. 2nd ed.)
Author(s): Rivera, Hilda.;Burghardt, Stephen.
Published: 2006
Available from: Charles C Thomas Publisher, Ltd.
http://www.ccthomas.com
2600 South First Street
Springfield, IL 62704
Abstract: This chapter discusses the meaning of community as it relates to child welfare policy and practice, and provides recommendations for how social workers can mobilize urban communities and promote their involvement in achieving family stability and permanency planning. The use of coalitions as an example of community approaches to child welfare services is described. 27 references. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Summit on Child Welfare Supervision: Proceedings.
Author(s): Collins-Camargo, Crystal.
Published: 2006
Available from: Child Welfare Information Gateway
http://www.childwelfare.gov
Children's Bureau/ACYF
1250 Maryland Avenue, SW
Eighth Floor
Washington, DC 20024
Abstract: This report discusses the proceedings of The Summit on Child Welfare Supervision, a conference sponsored by the Southern Regional Quality Improvement Center (SR QIC) with funding from the Children's Bureau in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It was designed to bring public child welfare administrators, frontline supervisors, child welfare trainers, and researchers together to share information on innovations in the enhancement of child welfare supervision to promote a learning organizational culture, worker retention, evidence based practice, and positive outcomes for children and families. As such, the Summit involved information sharing regarding the use of clinical supervision in child welfare, professional development for supervisors, and the use of university /agency/ community partnerships to enhance the child welfare system. Following an introductory section that explains the goals and structure of the Summit, a snapshot of the SR QIC supervision projects in Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee is provided. Section 2 then summarizes the current status of public child welfare supervision in participating States, and Section 3 summarizes Summit presentations. The presentations addressed the role of leadership to promote an enhanced child welfare workforce, findings from four States' clinical supervision projects, the nuts and bolts of university/agency partnerships, creativity and resilience in child welfare supervision, challenges to enhancing child welfare supervision, and building solutions and strategies in child welfare supervision. Section 4 summarizes roundtable discussions on recruiting and retaining competent staff, balancing the administrative and clinical roles of supervisors, and supervising in the midst of constant change. A final section discusses findings from the evaluation of the summit.

Title: The Home Study. (Chapter 17 in Complete Adoption Book: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child. Third Edition.)
Author(s): Beauvais-Godwin, Laura.;Godwin, Raymond.
Published: 2005
Available from: Adams Media
http://www.adamsmedia.com,
http://www.adamsmediastore.com/
57 Littlefield Street

Avon, MA 02322
Abstract: This chapter explains the home study process during an adoption. It discusses when to have a home study, who qualifies to adopt, selecting an agency or independent investigator, the steps of a home process, preparing for a caseworker visit, and types of information the caseworker will want to know. A sample home study is provided, along with information on postplacement supervisory visits.

Title: Ways of Working in Child Welfare: A Perspective on Practice.
Author(s): Lorbach, Suzanne.;Sawyer, Rob.;Saugen, Julie.;Astolfi, Candis.;Schmitt, Kory.;Worden, Pat.;Xaaji, Mascuud.
Published: 2005
Journal Name: Protecting Children
v. 20, 2/3, 2005, p. 93-99
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Printable version (PDF): http://www.co.olmsted.mn.us/upload_dir/cs/waysofworkinginchildwelfare.pdf
Abstract: This article includes social worker practice descriptions of direct work with families in Olmstead County, Minnesota, as well as measures taken by the child welfare agency to support partnership-based collaborative practice patterns. The narratives illustrate engagement strategies and careful query of strengths and protective capacities relative to frank discussion of concerns. Examples of the coordination are presented that include a wider network of child, family, and community resources in planning. 1 figure and 6 references. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Alternative Response in Minnesota: Findings of the Program Evaluation.
Author(s): Loman, L. Anthony.;Siegel, Gary L.
Published: 2005
Journal Name: Protecting Children
v. 20, 2/3, 2005, p. 78-92
Available from: American Humane
http://www.americanhumane.org/
63 Inverness Drive East
Englewood, CO 80112
Printable version (PDF): http://www.iarstl.org/papers/ARinMNfromProtectingChildren.pdf
Abstract: Findings from the first phase of an evaluation of the Minnesota Alternative Response Project are shared in the areas of child safety, family engagement, service changes, recurrences of child abuse and neglect reports and later child removals, family outcomes, worker responses, and program costs. Data from 2,860 experimental families and 1,305 control families indicate positive results in both instrumental outcomes, as well as in measures of child safety and child and family welfare. 5 figures and 11 references.

Title: Visit Coaching: Building on Family Strengths to Meet Children's Needs.
Author(s): Beyer, Marty.
Published: 2004
Available from: New York City Administration for Children's Services
http://www.nyc.gov/html/acs
150 William Street, 18th Floor
New York, NY 10038
Abstract: This manual is designed to assist social workers in facilitating visits between biological parents and children in out-of-home placements. It describes key features of visit coaching, including reaching agreement with the parent about the child's needs to be met in visits that are connected to the risks that brought the child into care; preparing parents for the child's reactions and how to plan to give their child their full attention at each visit; appreciating the parents' strengths in responding to their child and coaching them to improve their skills; supportively reminding parents immediately before and during the visit of how they plan to meet the needs of their children; and helping parents cope with their feelings in order to visit consistently. The four principles of visit coaching are explained and include empowerment, empathy, responsiveness, and active parenting. Strategies are then provided for helping parents take charge of visits, empowering families through visit planning, developing a strengths/needs-based service plan, supporting parent responsiveness to children?s needs, building attachment through visit coaching, and methods of visit coaching. Tips are also provided for responding to children's visit reactions, visit coaching with teenagers in care, visit coaching as parents return to the community, and coached visits in kinship care situations. Final sections review best practices for facilitating coached visits to make peace with the past and the logistics of visit coaching. Appendices include a parenting class visit module.

Title: Survey of Supervisory Practices and Roles.
Published: 2004
Available from: California Social Work Education Center (CalSWEC)
http://calswec.berkeley.edu/CalSWEC/
University of California, Berkeley
School of Social Welfare
Marchant Building, Suite 420
6701 San Pablo
Berkeley, CA 94720-7420
Printable version (PDF): http://calswec.berkeley.edu/calswec/SupervisorStudy.pdf
Abstract: Between July 2003 and January 2004, staff of the California Social Work Education Center (CalSWEC) administered the Survey of Supervisory Practices and Roles to a representative sample of 14 counties across California. The survey was administered separately to line workers and to supervisors and managers to aid line workers in providing the most candid responses possible. The purpose of the survey was 1) to learn more about the role of supervision in child welfare and current supervisory practices and 2) to learn more about the kind of training and support supervisors need to perform their work as effectively as possible. Five basic questions were asked on the survey: 1. What skills, attitudes, and knowledge do line workers, supervisors, and managers think are essential for excellent supervisory practice in the field of child welfare? 2. What are the current practices of supervisors? 3. In what type of trainings do supervisors and managers want supervisors to participate? 4. What level of involvement do/should supervisors have in training line workers? 5. What is the ideal role of a supervisor with regard to mentoring line workers? (Author abstract)

Title: Organization-Environment Relationships: Theory for Management Practice in Human Service Organizations.
Author(s): Schmid, Hillel.
Published: 2004
Journal Name: Administration in social work
v. 28, 1, 2004, p. 97-113
Available from: Taylor & Francis Group, LLC
http://www.taylorandfrancis.com
325 Chestnut Street
Suite 800
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Abstract: The article discusses lessons for executive directors in human service organizations, for managing organization-environment relationships. The first section reviews the three main theories of organization-environment relations: ecological theories, institutional theories, and adaptation theories (with emphasis on the political-economy and resource-dependency perspectives). Following this presentation, the article discusses the lessons derived from each of the theoretical approaches for executive directors in human service organizations. Emphasis is placed on several types of organizational behavior: passive and reactive organizational behavior, accepting environmental constraints; strategic behavior that conforms to the demands of the government and funding sources; and, alternatively, proactive strategies as expressed in new initiatives and attempts to identify threats and opportunities that will change the power-dependence relations between the organization and its environment. As regards the lessons for executive directors in human service organizations, given the rapid changes in their environments, it is important for them to develop an external organizational orientation and manage the environment just as they manage the organization's internal environment. In this way, they attain the legitimacy and resources needed for the organization's survival. (Author abstract)

Title: Exploring Managers' and Administrators' Retrospective Perceptions of Their MSW Fieldwork Experience: A National Study.
Author(s): Mor Barak, Michal E.;Travis, Dnika.;Bess, Gary.
Published: 2004
Journal Name: Administration in social work
v. 28, 1, 2004, p. 21-44
Available from: Taylor & Francis Group, LLC
http://www.taylorandfrancis.com
325 Chestnut Street
Suite 800
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Abstract: Social work education has historically focused on clinical practice and community organization, rather than on the development of management skills, and research documenting the macro practice field experiences of social work students is scarce. A national retrospective study of the fieldwork experiences of social work managers was conducted based on competencies established by the National Network for Social Work Managers (NNSWM). The 200 respondents (63% response rate) were managers and administrators with an average of 20 years post-master's experience. Results of hierarchical regressions indicate that macro practice focus and years of experience were the only significant correlates of the participants' retrospective perceptions of both quality and intensity of their field experience as related to management competencies. A factor analysis of the competencies revealed three underlying factors-internal experiences, external experiences and evaluation experiences, accounting for 73% of the variance in the data. While this is the first national study of its kind, the limitations of retrospective evaluations with respect to faulty or distorted memories are acknowledged. Implications for educating future managers and for future research are discussed. (Author abstract)

Title: Leadership and Management Competencies Defined by Practicing Social Work Managers: An Overview of Standards Developed by the National Network for Social Work Managers.
Author(s): Wimpfheimer, Shelly.
Published: 2004
Journal Name: Administration in social work
v. 28, 1, 2004, p. 45-56
Available from: Taylor & Francis Group, LLC
http://www.taylorandfrancis.com
325 Chestnut Street
Suite 800
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Abstract: The National Network for Social Work Managers, a professional membership organization established in the mid-'80s as a resource for social workers involved in agency management, has developed of a set of tools designed to improve management skills and ultimately the quality of service delivery in agencies. This article reviews these tools, focusing on the ten competencies needed to run a well-functioning, high quality organization. In addition, it will briefly introduce the reader to the Certified Social Work Manager (CSWM) credential, the only nationally recognized credential for specialists in social work management, as well as the Network's management practice standards. Although the primary purpose of this article is to introduce readers to these new contributions to the field of social work management, it also hopes to stir interest in the academic and practice communities in working collaboratively to develop additional new materials in the area of quality leadership by social work managers. (Author abstract)

Title: Making Sense of Learning Specifications and Standards: A Decision Maker's Guide to their Adoption.
Published: 2002
Available from: The MASIE Center
http://www.masie.com/
PO Box 397
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Printable version (PDF): http://web.archive.org/web/20070205075736/http://www.masie.com/standards/S3_Guide.pdf
Abstract: This report is designed to assist professionals in understanding the development of learning standards and the implementation of such standards in e-Learning. Beginning sections provide an overview of learning standards and describe e-Learning and the e-Learning industry. It is explained that the development of standards is very important for the consumers of e-Learning technologies because products that adhere to standards will provide consumers with wider product choices and a better chance that the products in which they invest will avoid quick obsolescence. Likewise, the case is made that common standards for things such as content meta-data, content packaging, content sequencing, question and test interoperability, learner profiles, and run-time interaction are requisite for the success of the knowledge economy and for the future of learning. The report explains how standards are formed, learning objects and standards, and the goals of the Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM), a unified set of core specifications and standards for e-Learning content, technologies, and services. Further sections address strategies for talking standards with e-Learning suppliers and applying standards in an organization. Appendix 1 on understanding conformance provides an explanation of which term to use and why, as well as a discussion on how conformance relates to a product's adherence to an individual specification or standard. Appendix 2 defines meta-data, provides examples, and explains the inherent value of meta-data. Appendix 3 explains the concept of Learning Objects, illustrates the hierarchy of a Learning Object, and describes Sharable Content Objects (SCO) and how they fit into that hierarchy. The final two appendices identify the various groups and organizations responsible for developing standards, provide links for further reference, and define key terms. 3 references.

Title: Supervising for Success: The Support and Supervision of Residential Care Staff.
Author(s): Rennie, Susan.
Published: 2002
Available from: Association of Childrens Welfare Agencies
http://acwa.asn.au
Locked Bag 13
Haymarket
Document available online at: http://www.acwa.asn.au/conf2002/Conf_proceedings/06%20Susan%20Rennie.doc
Abstract: The data discussed in this paper was collected in a series of in-depth interviews with residential staff in response to the question: What purposes and meanings do residential care workers assign to supervision? (Author abstract)

Title: Home Visitor Curricula and Training Evaluation.
Published: 2000
Available from: TEAM Florida Partnership
http://www.teamfla.org
Lawton and Rhea Chiles Center for Healthy Mothers and Babies
1310 Cross Creek Circle
Suite A
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Printable version (PDF): http://www.teamfla.org/downloads/HVEReport.pdf
Abstract: The Department of Health contracted with the USF Lawton and Rhea Chiles Center for Healthy Mothers and Babies for a third-party evaluation. The purpose of the contract was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Partners for a Healthy Baby home visiting curricula and training for Healthy Start and Healthy Families Florida home visiting staff members and their supervisors in order to enhance: (1) The staff's knowledge of infant brain development, (2) The staff's effective utilization of the infant brain development information with families, (3) The client's knowledge of infant brain development, and (4) The client's utilization of the brain development information. This evaluation report describes what happened as a result of the contract and an early assessment of the impact of the training for the home visitors and the families that had the opportunity to use the curricula and handouts. (Author abstract) Appendices available at http://www.teamfla.org/downloads/HVEAppendices.pdf

Title: The Key Role of Social Workers in Promoting the Well-Being of Children in State Care: A Neglected Dimension in Reforming Policies.
Author(s): Gilligan, Robbie.
Published: 2000
Journal Name: Children and Society
v. 14, 4, p. 267-276
Available from: Wiley Publishing, Inc.
http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Customer Care Center
10475 Crosspoint Boulevard
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Abstract: Increasingly, policy measures are emerging at national or agency level in different countries to improve the lot of children in state care. Most of these rely heavily on social workers for their implementation. Yet the capacity of social workers to carry out such an ever increasing range of complex tasks seems never to be properly recognised as an issue. This paper argues, from an international perspective, that the continuing central role of social work in the lives of children in care merits much more emphasis in policy and service delivery. The nature of the increasing demands on social workers in this area of work are explored. Possible strategies to help build the capacity of social workers to respond to the needs of children in state care in the new millenium are discussed. Such capacity building necessitates government and agency initiatives to ensure realistic staffing levels, renewed training, and adequate support for social work services to children in state care. (Author abstract)

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