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I.D.E.A. Structured Critical Reflection Guidelines

Using a critical thinking technique called I.D.E.A., demonstrate an understanding and application of the content from the perspective of policy analysis and practice. 

• Introduction: Provide a one-paragraph description of your selected policy. Include a link to your policy (or attach with your submission). Provide a second paragraph on your personal connection (or passion) to this policy. Then, 
• I: Identify NASW’s stated position(s) on this issue, according to Social Work Speaks (review the text for this). 
• D: Describe the ethical foundation of this position in connection to the NASW Code of Ethics. 
• E: Elaborate: come up with three to five open-ended questions (bullet points are fine) that demonstrate critical thought that this position raises in consideration of social work/policy practice. 
• A: Apply the general position(s) to the specifics of your chosen policy. In other words, “What is being said by NASW, advocacy groups, the general public, etc. about your selected policy?” Is there supporting evidence or proof of this? Reference your policy, journal articles, or reputable news sources and/or other material.  

I.D.E.A journal entries should balance thoroughness and conciseness—each step should include two to three paragraphs of critical content. While this is not a formal paper in that you do not need a conclusion, do use APA formatting and citations. 

Finding policies and policy information often involves strategic searching. The purpose of this assignment is to guide you through resources that are beneficial for searching federal policies and/or bills. Spend time searching for a policy that aligns with a social issue that you want to advocate for. Here are resources to use to help you locate your policy:  

• For FEDERAL policies in the U.S., use the website congress.gov (Links to an external site.) (Links to an external site.). You can find bills by subject and policy area (Links to an external site.) (Links to an external site.).  
• The United States Senate (Links to an external site.) (Links to an external site.) website allows you to search for legislation (Links to an external site.) (Links to an external site.) and records. 

This assignment will serve as your approval of your policy for your Policy Analysis & Peer Review. You are welcome to provide any questions that you may have about the chosen policy or direction for your assignments.