Dignity and Worth of the Person

Social work students should treat others in a respectful manner, regardless of differences. Respect for the dignity and worth of the person is demonstrated by:

• basic courtesy in interactions with others;
• paying attention to whoever has the instructor’s permission to speak in the classroom;
• refraining from behaviors which interfere with the learning process in the classroom (random talking, use of cell phones, interruptions to answer the vibrating cell phone or take an individual break from class); and
• always speaking and behaving in ways that show respect for others.

Importance of Human Relationships

Social work students demonstrate the importance of human relationships when they:

• form and sustain positive working relationships with others;
• demonstrate respect for and consideration of others;
• communicate effectively;
• accept responsibility for their own behavior in interaction with others;
• use appropriate channels for resolving conflicts; and
• manage their own personal stress and problems in ways that do not interfere with their relationships with their colleagues, their instructors, and especially clients and staff of social service agencies.

Integrity

Social workers are expected to be trustworthy and demonstrate high integrity. Social work students demonstrate integrity when they:

• meet their responsibilities in their classes;
• do their own work;
• refrain from plagiarizing;
• refuse to do the work of others; and
• refrain from all forms of cheating and dishonesty in assignments and examinations.

Competence

Social work students are expected to demonstrate competence with their commitment to their studies. Behaviors that demonstrate this commitment include:

• attending all scheduled classes on time;
• remaining attentive and in the classroom throughout the time scheduled for the class meeting;
• participation in all learning activities scheduled for the class;
• reading all assigned readings to prepare for classes;
• effort to produce quality work in completing all assignments;
• timely submission of assignments;
• effort to prepare for quizzes and examinations; and
• following up on recommendations of instructors for skill improvement.

Students whose family and/or employment obligations interfere with their commitment and devotion to their studies should consider reducing their course load.

Service

Social work students are expected to be of service to others. Students demonstrate this value by:

• learning all they can as students to become prepared for the role of social worker;
• active participation in all service learning requirements of the curriculum;
• reporting to service learning agencies on time, properly dressed, and ready to provide service to the organization and its clients;
• demonstrating all the professional values and ethics in their interactions at the service learning site; and
• volunteering their services to assist others, when feasible.

Social Justice

Social workers are especially concerned about people who are vulnerable and oppressed. They seek social change to challenge social injustice. They work to provide equal access to opportunities and meaningful participation in decision making for persons who have experienced discrimination and oppression. Social work students are expected to:

• be sensitive in relating to persons who have experienced discrimination and oppression; and
• learn ways to seek social change for a more just society.