Article Title

Understanding Writing Challenges of Rural MSW Students: Preparing Students for Ethical Practice

Authors

Jennifer A. Shadik, Ohio UniversityFollow
Sarah B. Garlington, Ohio UniversityFollow
Terry Cluse-Tolar, Ohio UniversityFollow
Glenn Abraham, Ohio University

Abstract

This study explores the attitudes and reflections of rural MSW students regarding writing. Twenty-seven students completed the modified Writing-to-learn Attitudes Survey (WTLAS). Fourteen completed an open-ended reflection where they were asked to assess their strengths and challenges in writing, as well as strategies for improvement. Results of WTLAS indicated students were anxious about writing, had difficulty organizing their thoughts, presenting their ideas clearly, and had little confidence in their writing. Results of the writing reflection indicated students were able to identify multiple challenges and strengths as well as means to remedy shortcomings. Qualitative analysis indicated the most frequent challenges were: clear and concise writing, time management, and APA style and format. The researchers review interventions implemented with an MSW cohort to enhance writing abilities and discuss the link between effective writing and ethical practice.

Recommended Citation

Shadik, Jennifer A.; Garlington, Sarah B.; Cluse-Tolar, Terry; and Abraham, Glenn (2018) "Understanding Writing Challenges of Rural MSW Students: Preparing Students for Ethical Practice," Contemporary Rural Social Work Journal: Vol. 10: No. 1, Article 1.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.61611/2165-4611.1157
Available at: https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/crsw/vol10/iss1/1