WAC: A Strengths-Based Approach to Student Learning

As is reported in other undergraduate disciplines, many social work students struggle with developing their writing skills. In this article we explore the special relevancy to social work education of a pedagogical approach known as Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC), which provides a model for effective teaching based on the interrelationship of writing, learning, and thinking. We view improving student writing from a strengths perspective. Including students in the language of the profession and developing their critical thinking skills is a normative process accomplished through the instructor's conscious use of writing assignments in creative and integrative ways.