Research- and Practice-Based Models for Advancing Social Work

This book presents a wide array of innovative and cutting-edge practice models, research-based conceptualisations and theorisations as well as policy contributions which will serve as resource material for social work professionals across the globe. This volume is a unique presentation of rich epistemic and practice diversity and contributes to current and future demands of social work knowledge.

Despite the diversity of the global context of social work – language, culture, philosophy, economic and social and political systems – the social work profession presents a cohesive voice that resonates among its professionals. Social workers uphold the values of dignity, rights and justice as well as share a strong belief in the inherent strength of individuals, groups and communities. Through this book, the authors bring together a variety of innovative, contemporary and forward-looking conceptualisations and practice models.

Being the first volume in the Advancing Social Work Practice, Policy, and Research Series, the impressive coverage of the book includes research-based practice models from different country contexts that have global appeal and relevance to the international human and welfare sector. It also includes important conversations about the present and future of social work practice and prepares students as well as professional social workers for practice in an increasingly globalised, dynamic and culturally diverse environment.

Contributions are authored by internationally recognised scholars and leaders writing about social work, as well as by social work professionals in countries and regions where their voices are seldom heard in the international community.

Research- and Practice-Based Models for Advancing Social Work is a timely and important collection of international social work scholarship, work and ideas. The book is an essential resource for students, practitioners and educators alike. Policy makers, researchers and other professionals also would find the volume useful for their work.

Ngoh Tiong Tan, PhD, is Chair, Global Institute of Social Work, Honorary Professor and former Dean of S. R. Nathan School of Human Development, Singapore University of Social Sciences. Professor Tan was Treasurer, and currently Co-chair of the Publication Committee and Main Representative to United Nations Bangkok for International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW) and Editor of the SpringerBriefs book series on Advancing Social Work. He is Director of Joy Foundation and Good Harvest International, President of ConneXions International, and served on a number of Boards including Commonwealth Organisation for Social Work, International Consortium for Social Development, Singapore Corporation of Rehabilitative Enterprises, National Council of Social Services and Family Resource and Training Centre. He is Life member and Past President of Singapore Association of Social Workers, past Vice President of International Federation of Social Workers. He led IFSW and COSW’s FAST (Families And Survivors of Tsunami) Project as an international social work response to the Asian tsunami disaster. Dr. Tan was a consultant and Principal Investigator for a number of research and consultancy projects. He has also taught social work models, family practice, conflict resolution and mediation, disaster management, research and evaluation courses at the university. Professor Tan had formerly taught at National University of Singapore, University of Minnesota, Augsburg College and St Thomas University. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota, MSW from University of Pennsylvania and BA from University of Singapore. He has been a Visiting Scholar to Cambridge University and Harvard University as well as UC-Berkeley and Sydney University.