ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores reflective practice, social work, research and self-inquiry within the context of narrative. As social work has become a recognized profession across the world, interest in student exchange programs, international curriculum content, study abroad experiences and faculty collaboration has blossomed. The audio podcasts were available through Blackboard and StudySpace, and accessible to students studying on specific courses. The book focuses on student narratives which include personalized and detailed passages about identities, lived experiences within the context of social justice, empowerment, journeys through and within social work education and child welfare. Self-reflection and narrative are connected, as in making sense of experiences or events a form of agency is created, which takes place with historical, social and cultural contexts. Self-narration is an important way to develop skills of critical reflection through different narrative forms of communication such as poetry, photographs and drawings.
