Browsing by Author "Van Zyl, Ronel"
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- ItemThe professional development of the rural social worker(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 1995) Van Zyl, Ronel; Botha, N. J.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study deals with the unique characteristics of rural social work, and the professional development of the rural social worker. Considering that the profession until now has been more concerned with the dramatic urbanization process, that more than 51 percent of the South African population reside in rural areas, while the majority of welfare organizations are in the urban areas, away from the people, and that limited research has been undertaken in this field, then it becomes evident that this is a subject that deserves attention. A non-experimental descriptive and explanatory study was appropriate. The survey method was used to collect the data. The literature study investigated the nature of rural social work, methods that social workers can use for their professional development, the role of the supervisor, and the role that the organization can play in the social worker's professional development. Data was collected by means of a self-administered mail questionnaire. Quantitative research was implemented to conduct and verify the incidence of certain phenomenon, while qualitative research was used to describe and explain the social reality. Social workers and supervisors of welfare organizations and state departments in the Eastern, Northern and Western Cape were represented in the study. The study provided information on the theory of rural of social work, and the professional development of social workers. It also offers guidelines for the enhancement of the professional development of rural social workers. Social workers can use this study for their own professional development. Furthermore, private welfare organizations and state departments functioning in rural (and urban) areas can use this study to develop a greater understanding of rural social work practice, and to promote the professional development of social workers. It is important to implement the recommendations in order to determine the effectiveness thereof. Further research, resulting from this study could contribute to increasing the effectiveness of rural social work.