It takes situational factors into consideration, is tentative and is concerned both with the strengths and weaknesses. It is enacted in the context of a positive relationship. Evaluation is one of the most important elements of the supervisor s role which, when handled well, makes a major contribution to the worker s development and to client services.
Evaluation is both a product and an ongoing process.
The evaluation process begins at the point when the student and the field instructor initially meet to discuss learning and teaching objectives for the year and ends in a mutually shared endeavor, the evaluation report. Evaluation is seen as an integral part of social work education and practice. The continual assessment and evaluation of one s own practice and awareness of one s use of self are basic to social work. The evaluation is a jumping off point for a process that will continue throughout one s professional social work career. The formal evaluation differs from an ongoing assessment, which should be part of each conference.