Preparing for graduate study
One can prepare for graduate study in each of the competency areas in several ways. Making for academic competency requires one to be disciplined by ensuring that they set aside enough time to study. Conducting research on the course modules can help in the uptake of new knowledge from the course. I can also prepare for professional competency through following the recent trends in professional counselling. New trends affect the profession and thereby reading more information from articles on new and upcoming trends can help me acquire relevant skills on professional expertise in line with observing the code of ethics that is applicable in the profession. I intend to gain clinical competency through learning about the best practices that can be applied in the trade. These best practices can be deduced from reading some of the effective ways that a counselor can ensure that they observe due diligence and skill in their line of work.
Question B
To prepare myself for acquiring such competencies, I may require a lot of information to achieve the set goals. One of the primary sources of data is the ACA code of ethics. The system is available online and in the course materials that we will use. I may also need to access information about various aspects of management. These aspects may be necessary in the development of skills that are critical for anyone who wants to work in teams. Doing this may also help gain skills in collaborative learning and how they may be applied in practice. Another primary source of information will be journals and peer-reviewed articles on counselling. These journals provide a lot of information about the practice and some of the best practices that may be applied by counselors. Each of these sources of information will be important for me going forward.
Question C
I also think I will have an additional role in helping my fellow students to gain competency in each of the areas. One of the ways that I may help is through ensuring that I provide a conducive environment for my peers. I may do this by respecting my peers and helping those that may have difficulties understanding some of the course components that we are taught in the course. I can also help some of the students by collaborating in class and when revising about some of the academic competencies that we will learn in the course. I can also help students who may be struggling with school work in the classroom. Ability in the course may be different, and thereby it is critical to help those who may be struggling in absorbing some of the knowledge that is in the class. Helping them to have access to additional learning materials may also help expand their scope on required competencies.
Question D
If a student cannot demonstrate any of these competencies, I think they should not be allowed to graduate in the program. When individuals are allowed to graduate without meeting the required criteria in the form of competencies needed, there will always be a danger that gross negligence and malpractice could happen in the field of counselling. One of the options that should be sought is to provide more classes to such students. Additional courses and supporting them throughout this process may help them gain these competencies and ensure that they are well-placed or ready for professional practice in the future. Supplementary examinations could also help them learn more knowledge about the required skills.
Reference