Midterm and Final Evaluations

(A revised Practicum Evaluation Tool for the 2024-25 academic year is in development)

FIFSW uses a competency-based framework, developed in consultation with over 100 Field Instructors, to evaluate the extent to which a student has achieved the objectives of the practicum courses. The model used for evaluation should be individualized and applied in relation to the nature of practice assignments, the approach to practice in the agency, and the Learning Contract.

See the Courses section for an overview of Practicum 1 Competencies and Practicum 2 Competencies.

A psychometrically-sound, Practice-Based Evaluation (PBE) tool used for mid-term and final evaluations allows instructors to evaluate their student’s performance using statements that are universal and feasible in the context of real practice. The statements are categorized into six domains, and each statement has a weighting or score. A minimum score of three in each of the six domains is required for a student to successfully complete the practicum course.

The domains vary slightly between Direct and Indirect Practice.

The six domains are:

Several weeks before the evaluation is due, the student and Field Instructor should discuss the procedures, format, and content of the evaluation, clarifying expectations and respective responsibilities.

The instructor and student each:

1. review the Learning Contract, identifying any additional learning needs;
2. review the practice data and/or evidence that will be used in evaluation;
3. independently select 4-6 statements in each of the six domains of the PBE tool that best describe the student’s performance;
4. supplement these statements with written comments and an overall summary; and
5. save and submit.

When both student and Field Instructor have submitted the evaluation, the scores are viewable by both.

Both the mid-term and final evaluations follow this procedure. In the final evaluation, a written summary is added regarding the student’s strengths, development during the practicum, areas that need additional focus in Practicum 2 or through continuing education and employment supervision, etc.

Students and Field Instructors assigned to rotational placements follow individualized timelines for the completion of their evaluations. An evaluation must be submitted at the end of each rotation by both the student and the respective Field Instructor.

Grading

Practicum is a credit/no credit course. A credit (CR) is given when a student meets the competency expectations of the practicum.

A No Credit (NCR) is given when a student does not meet the competency expectations of the practicum. A No Credit (NCR) is the equivalent of a failure (FZ) grade in an academic course and is subject to the same regulations.

Student Practicum Records

Is highly recommended that students keep their own records of practicum details, as these may be required in the future. The Practicum Administrative System (PAS) does not provide records/transcripts that may be required in the future by a potential employer, regulatory body, licensing organization, or for other purposes. The Practicum Office is not responsible for providing/verifying the credentials of a Field Instructor after completion of the program.

Resources

• Evaluation Due Dates for Practicum 1
• Evaluation Due Dates for Practicum 2
• Sample Evaluation – Direct Practice (PDF)
• Sample Evaluation – Indirect Practice (PDF)
• Regehr, C., Bogo, M. and, Regehr, G. The Development of an Online Practice-Based Evaluation Tool for Social Work. Research on Social Work Practice 21(4), pp. 469-475. Available as PDF from U of T Libraries.