STUDENT ORIENTATION CHECKLIST
1. Orient the student to the following information: parking; layout of building complex; lunch and break times; dress requirements; policy regarding expense reimbursement; holidays, requirements for signing in and out; instructions regarding telephone use; security precautions; etc.
2. Insurance coverage requirements and risk management procedures.
3. Describe what the agency/department does and does not do. Provide a brief history and describe funding sources. Explain the types of people served and their primary needs. Review staffing pattern and explain their respective roles. Talk about the kinds of activities carried out by social workers and describe what a staff member might do during an average day.
4. Discuss any required health and criminal checks.
5. Provide an organizational chart of the agency and unit where the student is placed.
6. Review the code of ethics with your student.
7. Introduce student to clerical and receptionist staff so they know him/her by name and face.
8. Review with the student the role, responsibilities and requirements of a Field Instructor.
9. Acquaint student with agency's clerical and recordkeeping system. Show where records are kept and explain filing system. Explain necessary clerical procedures: how to get a letter typed; copying and transcribing information; mail and message system.
10. Explain your need to document supervision.
11. Explain procedures for compiling all agency required statistical reports. (Advisable to give in writing along with examples or forms.)
12. Explain specific recording requirements of the agency. Provide copies of outlines for intakes, transfers, closings, social histories, and all other required reports. Share examples of recordings in actual case records.
13. Explain how student is to identify him/herself (in agency records, written reports, and correspondence, oral contracts with clients).
14. Arrange for key supervisory or administrative personnel to meet with students.
15. Explain importance of assiduous supervision in relationship to risk management.
16. Orient student to library and audio visual aids.
17. Review agency safety practices re: home visits, out of control clients, etc.
18. Explain specific confidentiality requirements of agency (consent to release of information forms, guidelines for presenting client information in the classroom). Be sure the student understands mandatory reporting requirements.
19. Each student should have access to the following reference materials somewhere near their work area: Intra -agency and community phone directories; Agency procedures manual (encourage the student to read it); Information on community resources.
20. Explain where student can find a private interviewing area when needed.
21. Make sure you have the student disclose their internship status with clients.
22. Explain any policies pertaining to the handling of crisis or other emergencies.
23. Discuss professional boundaries in 'the students' relationships with other agency staff, clients, and collateral clients. Explain that you, as Field Instructor, are responsible for setting and maintaining appropriate boundaries.