Published April 2026
by
Dr. Amy Skeen
Simmons University
Liane Lussier-Smith
University of Connecticut
Dr. Rebecca L. Thomas
University of Connecticut
Dr. Shannon Lane
University of Connecticut
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Episode 7: “Building the Pipeline: Policy Practice in Social Work Education“
Host of The Conversation, Amy Skeen of the Simmons University School of Social Work, explores how social work education can better prepare students for policy and macro-level practice through practicum.
In this episode, we focus on how practicum, social work’s signature pedagogy, can be leveraged to create meaningful, hands-on policy experiences and strengthen the pipeline of future social work leaders.
We’re joined by faculty from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work, who share how they collaborate to engage students in policy practice across local, national, and international contexts.
Listen to the episode on Spotify here
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Published October 2025
by
Dr. Amy Skeen
Simmons University
Dr. Marina Badillo-Diaz
MABD Consulting
Episode 6: AI’s Emerging Role in Social Work Practicum Education
Host of The Conversation, Amy Skeen of Simmons University, interviews Dr. Marina Badillo-Diaz, social worker and a leading voice at the intersection of social work and artificial intelligence. AI is quickly moving into classrooms and practicum sites, bringing exciting opportunities and critical challenges. In this episode we’ll explore the benefits, risks, and ethical considerations of bringing AI into practicum education.
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Published April 2025
by
Katharine Dill, PhD
Marist University
Natalie Beck Aguilera, DSW
St. Edward’s University
Episode 5: Unpaid practicum internships: Issues and answers
Host of The Conversation, Dr. Katharine Dill of Marist University, interviews Dr. Natalie Beck Aguilera of St. Edward’s University. The practice of requiring unpaid practicums in social work education runs counter to the profession’s belief in economic justice. In one study, 80% of students reported that their practicum had a negative impact on their financial situation. Stress associated with the resulting financial hardship has been found to compromise the learning experience, with a disparate impact on low-income students. Social work education programs can leverage multiple approaches to help students access the financial resources they need during their internships.