Simulation-based learning in Social Work – Building opportunities for clinical supervision for social work students and interns

There are limited opportunities for social work students to receive clinical training, supervision, and practice prior to field placement, posing a significant challenge for social work education.

This project develops a simulation-based pedagogical model at the McGill University School of Social Work to better prepare students for field placement internships in Quebec. Simulation offers realistic opportunities for students to practice clinical interventions, receive immediate feedback, and build confidence in a safe, low risk environment. 

Led by Professor Sarah Tarshis, trained at the University of Toronto under the Toronto Simulation Model and with over a decade of experience designing and implementing simulation in social work, this initiative provides experiential learning, peer support, and formal clinical supervision for undergraduate and graduate students. The project will: (1) train and mentor eight clinical social work interns using simulation; (2) recruit clinical supervisors to provide guidance and feedback; (3) design and implement ten simulation activities and workshops across the School of Social Work; and (4) develop clinical educational videos for classroom use. By combining innovative pedagogy with structured mentorship and practical training, the program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to succeed in internships and future professional practice.