Winging it? : En studie i utmaningar och metoder för VFU-handledning av socionomstudenter

This thesis investigates the methods used by internship supervisors in social work to teach their students, as well as the emotional challenges these supervisors encounter during the internship semester. The study is based on recorded interviews with supervisors, which were analyzed in conjunction with previous research articles on the subject and two theoretical frameworks: Emotional Labor Theory and Kolb's Experiential Learning Cycle. The findings reveal that supervisors employ a variety of strategies to support student learning, including fostering independent decision-making, effective communication, and leadership skills. This study found that some supervisors don’t have a strategy for supervising their students, and instead tend to wing it. Supervisors also face significant emotional challenges, such as managing their own insecurities and balancing personal and professional boundaries. The results align with previous studies, confirming the complexity of the supervisory role and the need for empathy, patience, and adaptability. However, the study underscores the necessity for further research to deepen understanding and improve support for supervisors in social work education.