At each educational level, the CSWE requires that schools establish, and students complete, at least a set number of hours. For example, 400 hours is required for a BSW. Our program required 450. (Sometimes I think that state regulators need to be reminded of that detail.)
I encouraged students to keep track of their numbers for licensure.
When asked for letters of recomendation, I insert a standard paragraph that notes that the individual had met the requirements for graduation.
Some states request letters from field instructors. But field instructors may have left the agency. As "Director of Field," I've provided "supevision" letters to regulatory boards in 5 or 6 states.
I strongly feel that it is the schools responsibility to maintain and provide such evidence if requested.
Also, noteing the CSWE requirements as well as our own. If the student had exceeded our requirement I noted the specific number of hours.
I also kept a simple digital spread sheet that listed each student's date of graduation, field placement and hours completed.
Gary Bachman MSSW
Professor Emeritus- Park University
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Original Message:
Sent: 3/17/2026 4:54:00 PM
From: Kim Crane Mallory
Subject: RE: Why would students need lifetime access?
Hi Nan, we have had students reach out needing verification of practicum hours for licensure. I'm guessing lifetime access could potentially help with that, but we didn't see it as a big benefit. Hope that helps!
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Kim Crane Mallory
Director of Field Education
University of Tennessee at Knoxville
Knoxville TN
615-782-6157
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Original Message:
Sent: Mar 07, 2026 10:39
From: Nancy "Nan" Askeland
Subject: Why would students need lifetime access?
I am curious why students would need lifetime access to their field platform? I have not experienced needing anything other than my transcript for any position I have held. Other than as a new Director of Field Education, I have gone back and looked at some of the tools I used through out my education, and practicum experiences. So I am wondering if this is really a necessary component, or something others have been used to sharing with students?
*We are currently using Experiential Learning Cloud and are switching to a new software due to them changing the cost structure. They are moving away from the lifetime access and students will need to pay a yearly fee to keep ELC active. It could be cheaper for some students, but not for all of them
I look forward to hearing more on this perspective:)
Joy for your day,
Nan
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Nancy "Nan" Askeland
Director of Field Education
+1 (507) 537-6543
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