Work Discussion: Implications for Research and Policy

In this chapter Professor Rustin discusses the method of Work Discussion. This is a technique of self observation for clinical practitioners where individual practitioners observe themselves while actively involved in work situations and reflect on the implications of what is seen and experienced. A Work Discussion seminar supervises and reflects on each member’s observations in order to share knowledge between practitioners with similar work situations. He discusses the ways in which Working discussion might become a means of improving professional practice and policy-making outside of ‘continuing professional development’ or CPD programmes. The chapter concludes that there is scope for the Work Discussion method to influence institutional design however the engagement of more experienced researcher-practitioners is required alongside a focus on selected contexts of work – e.g. day nurseries, infant schools, children’s wards, university classes, remand centres. More accountable methods of data collection and analysis are also recommended.

Citation:
Rustin, M. (2008) ‘Work Discussion: Implications for Research and Policy’ Published in: Rustin, M., Bradley, J. (eds) Work Discussion: Professional Practice with Children and Families, Karnac Books 2008, pp 267-284..