second practice theory course builds on SWK 501, Generalist Practice with Individuals, Families and Small Groups, extending the concepts of strengths based practice to work with organizations and communities. The relationships between communities and organizations and at risk populations are infused throughout the course. Knowledge, values and skills will be obtained throughout the course. These will be gained through readings, oral and written assignments, and videos.

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Chapter 13
Using Supervision
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Current State of Supervision
• Supervision is currently being affected by fiscal
constraints, cutbacks, and the shift to an
increasingly management-oriented mindset
• Some social workers are being supervised by
persons outside of their field
• New styles of supervision are attempting to de-
emphasize the power and expertise differential
between supervisee and supervisor

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Supervision: A definition
“Supervision is the process of overseeing,
directing, coordinating, enhancing, and
evaluating the ‘on-the-job performance’ of
workers for whom the supervisor is responsible.”
(Kadushin & Harkness, 2002, p. 23).
Some supervisors will act as mentors to you. They
will encourage you to do your best, provide you
with new learning opportunities, and promote
your professional growth.

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Functions of Supervision
• Administrative
• Educational
• Support

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Supervision versus Consultation
Supervision implies that the information provided
to the worker is used and that the direction
provided to the worker is followed
Consultation implies that a supervisor provides a
worker with expert help in the form of
recommendations. The worker can choose to
accept or reject those recommendations.

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Recommendations for Enhancing the
Supervisory Relationship
• Use your communication skills with your
supervisor
• Keep your records up to date
• Plan your supervisory agenda ahead of time
• Put yourself in your supervisor’s shoes
• Display openness to learning and to improving
yourself
• Demonstrate a liking for your work

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Enhancing the Supervisory Relationship
• Follow the rules
• Think beyond tomorrow
• Work cooperatively with other staff
• Do more than expected
• Give your supervisor feedback
• Forewarn your supervisor about problematic
situations
• Learn your supervisor’s evaluation plan

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Manage Potential Problems in Supervision
• Simple misunderstandings between supervisor
and supervisee
• Supervisors who take credit for your
achievements
• Supervisory incompetence
• Laziness
• Problems with delegation
• Inability to deal with conflict