Abstract :

This article focuses on the current situation of professional development (PD) capacity through self-directed learning (including knowledge, awareness, intervention skills, professional attitudes) of social work students in Hanoi National University of Education (HNUE). To achieve this goal, we conducted a random survey of 135 students by observation methods, and questionnaires. Self-directed learning (SDL) is one effective tool to enhance professional learning (which is a key component of professional development, in addition to professional identity and professional practice) because it oriented a process for students to achieve the desired results. Research results show that students’ awareness, attitudes, and skills of professional development via self-directed learning are weak. Students are not aware of and understand how to develop their profession. The activities they did are just according to their intuition and do not have the necessary skills for PD. This leads to the recommendation for an educational group social work. This suggested group work aims to enhance awareness, attitudes, and skills of professional development through SDL of Social Work students in HNUE by providing knowledge, skills, and the way how to apply them to actual activities, promoting the capacity of the individual.

---

Keywords :

: Group Social Work, Professional Development, Self-Directed Learning, Social Work Student.

---

References :

1. Hiemstra, R. (1994). Self-directed learning. In T. H. (Eds.), The International Encyclopedia of Education (second edition). Oxford: Pergamon Press. Retrieved from https://roghiemstra.com/sdlhdbk.html
2. Lisa M. Baumgartner. (2003). Self-Directed Learning: A Goal, Process, and Personal Attribute. In L. M. Baumgartner, Adult Learning Theory: A Primer. Information Series. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/234747945_Adult_Learning_Theory_A_Primer_Information_Series

3. Malcolm S. Knowles. (1975). Self-directed Learning: A Guide for Learners and Teachers. Adult Education.
4. Stephen D. Brookfield. (2009). Self-Directed Learning. In R. M. Wilson, International Handbook of Education for the Changing World of Work (p. 2615). Germany.