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Current Students
Practicum Survey
Recent Survey of Practicum Experience
As an indication of how Program participants manage the practicum experience, the following table summarizes the results of a recent survey. During Spring 2005, the Program conducted a qualitative survey on the practicum experiences of recent graduates. Most participants view their practicum experience as one of the highlights of the Program. We hope this information proves useful in planning for this valuable opportunity.
Practicum Survey Questions |
Summary of Answers |
How did you find the time to complete your practicum? (vacation? time off from work? weekends? nights?) |
Used paid and unpaid leave. Worked out flexible work schedule with office. A few earned some money with the practicum. |
If you had to make special arrangements with your work to do the practicum, what were the issues? Was your supervisor supportive? What difficulties did you encounter? |
In general, supervisors were surprisingly supportive. Work out arrangements well in advance. Look for ways to make the value of practicum apparent to your workplace. Maintain communication with work & practicum supervisors throughout the planning and actual practicum experience. |
How did you manage the cost of doing your practicum? This may include travel, stay and other costs. |
Savings, family assistance. Not much local costs. Some participants continued to be paid at work. Don't be shy about looking for financial assistance. |
At the practicum site, did you experience any personal difficulties with your supervisor or other employees? Is there anything that might have been done (by you or the PUBA staff) to minimize those difficulties? |
No real problems. Be flexible and communicate. |
How stressful was the practicum experience on your personal relationships (family and friends)? Do you have any recommendations for managing that stress? |
Experienced some stress--substantial at times. Important to communicate about needs/concerns with family members. Organize. Get exercise. |
What recommendations would you make to those who are planning their practicums? |
Investigate the agency. Ask questions. Communicate regularly with your supervisor. Be sure to meet with practicum supervisor and PUBA supervisor. Really keep the journal that PUBA asks you to do--it helps! Get started early. Look for opportunities to apply what you learned in the Core Year. |
Any other response? |
Share practicum experience with your core year colleagues to keep the network alive. |
Capstone Project Sample
The following is an example of a completed capstone project from Spring 2005:
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