Gail Folaron
School of Social Work - ES 4138
Indiana University
902 West New York St
Indianapolis IN 46202
USA
Phone: 317-274-6792
FAX: 317-274-8630
Email: gfolaron@iupui.edu
Carol Hostetter
School of Social Work
Indiana University
1127 E Atwater St
Bloomington IN 47401
USA
Phone: 812-855-4427
FAX: 812-855-6110
Email: chostett@indiana.edu
Purpose: The purpose of this presentation is to describe the effectiveness of a multiple method approach in determining the educational needs of child welfare caseworkers.
Methods: In this three year project, advisory teams were established to guide the research. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used in the research design.
Qualitative data were collected in focus groups using a modified DACUM model with caseworkers and supervisors in all regions of the state, interviews with key informants, and social work and human service program directors.
Quantitative data were collected in surveys of judges, foster parents, social work/human service program directors, and caseworkers and supervisors. Three years of existing data collected by the state on caseworker learning needs were also analyzed for trends and gaps. Finally, state-collected data on federally mandated child welfare outcomes were correlated with educational degree and experience of workers and supervisors to determine which educational degrees support competent job skills.
Results: The primary focus of this presentation will be on the strengths and challenges of using multiple research methods, including:
Included in the presentation will be information on the research
results related to content needs and effective methods of delivery to educate
caseworkers.
Implications for Practice: Time and budgets dictate methods. Even with the best methodological design, barriers can arise. Multi-method approaches capture a comprehensive picture in complex research questions, and validate findings in light of low response rates.