ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book addresses why the social work profession needs to develop a greater intellectual tradition and ethos. Just because it is social work does not mean it is 'soft' or easy. Intellectual rigor is an important component of any profession. It introduces basic concept of learning theory; self-regulated learning, metacognition, and epistemology. The book explains in a user-friendly tone related to learning how to think as a social worker. It explores epistemology in more depth. The process of epistemological development is presented. The book addresses anxiety about research and knowledge development. Numerous ideas are presented from students and researchers that foster a classroom environment for critical thinking and epistemological development. The book focuses on years of teaching research methods, direct course evaluations, research on teaching and learning, and quotations from students.
