Preparation for Field Work Practicum in Criminal Justice Settings

Abstract

The purpose of the current study was to assess the needs regarding preparation for field work practicum of Taiwanese interns in criminal justice settings. The Delphi method was used to collect information on interns’ perceived needs regarding preparation for practicum, including academic courses, selection, the application process, and expectations regarding practicum in criminal justice settings. Thirty-six Taiwanese undergraduate interns completed three rounds of questionnaires. The results identified seven priorities for preparation of academic courses, three apex superiorities for selection of fieldwork practicum, 11 shared needs for application, and 13 common items for expecting practicum for interns from four groups of agencies. Implications and future studies for course development, professional development, and self-awareness in the fieldwork practicum of criminal justice were also discussed.