Getting Ready for Community Practice: An EvidenceBased Preparation Course for Kenyan Practicum Students
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Date
2018-03
Authors
VanLeeuwen, Charlene A.
Kathuri-Ogola, Lucy
Weeks, Lori E.
Muriithi, Joan Kabaria
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences
Abstract
Practicums provide opportunities for students to connect theory with practice through experiential learning
and hands-on work experience. While recommended for students in Kenya, there is little research on the
practicum experience. This article describes evidence used to prepare students for practicum experiences.
Interviews and focus groups (FGs) were conducted with three stakeholder groups in two phases. Findings
informed the development of a practicum preparation course that covers topics including (i) becoming a
reflective professional and/or practitioner; (ii) articulating practicum learning goals; (iii) mental preparation for
demanding field-based situations; and (iv) developing confidence in interpersonal communication. Phase two
evaluated the initial impact of the course through FGs and follow-up interviews
Description
Article
Keywords
higher education, field placements, practicum, community-based learning, professional practice, Kenya
Citation
VanLeeuwen, C. A., Kathuri‐Ogola, L., Weeks, L. E., & Kabaria Muriithi, J. (2018). Getting Ready for Community Practice: An Evidence‐Based Preparation Course for Kenyan Practicum Students. Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal, 46(3), 238-251.