Menu

Critical thinking, professional judgement and decision making

Critical thinking, professional judgement and decision making

NQSWs develop competence and confidence in applying critical thinking, analysis, research, and best practice to inform professional judgement and decision making in all areas of practice including assessment and review.

Newly qualified social workers will develop their skills to critically reflect on their practice and analyse information to inform professional judgements, recommendations and decisions.  Their ability to provide a clear rationale verbally or in writing will play a key role in promoting self-determination, positive changes, support and protection. The NQSW will develop confidence and competence in gathering evidence, drawing on research and best practice to analyse and justify decisions.

They will develop confidence articulating their professional judgement and decisions in different arenas. They will utilise supports such as supervision to make careful and complex decisions as to how and when there may be the need to intervene in the lives of individuals.

Icon to represent critical thinking, professional judgement and decision making

Reflective questions

  • How would you rate your confidence in Critical thinking, professional judgement and decision making?
  • 1 is very low in confidence and 10 is very high 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
  • What has made you pitch your response here?
  • What would help you enhance your confidence and how will you plan this?

We are currently developing the information and resources for this page. Please let us know if you have any recommended resources for other NQSWs in Scotland and we will share it here. You can contact us at nqswproject@sssc.uk.com.