Programmed case material as an aid in teaching ego psychology: A methodology for clinical social work education

Four specific problems inherent in the relationship between the theory and practice of contemporary ego psychology limit the effective transmission of ego psychological concepts and principles in clinical social work education. These problems are further conceived as impeding the student's ability to integrate theory and clinical reality, and ultimately reduce the quality of the student's facility with practical technique. As one approach to these problems, this article presents the rationale and design for a teaching aid utilizing programmed case material and self-assessment modules as a methodology for enhancing the integration of theory and the clinical realities explicated by theory. The programmed Casebook and its implementation are illustrated. The values of the Casebook for classroom learning are discussed, relating the anticipated educational experience to the four specific problem areas outlined.