Homelessness From a Holistic Paradigm: Bridging Gaps in Curriculum Through Supplemental Education Opportunities

In the following article we argue that social work education and research ought to approach homelessness from a holistic paradigm emphasizing individual resilience and autonomy. The current lack of explicit curriculum in many schools of social work necessitates creative strategies to integrate homeless content into social work education. We offer 3 diverse pedagogical strategies: course-based service learning, program evaluation, and graduate research assistantships. Students engaged in these activities acquire firsthand experiences with individuals experiencing homelessness in ways that humanize the issue, and critical reflection facilitates application of new knowledge. Additional, students’ work may impact homeless services positively by generating data to support service and policy reforms. Ultimately, schools of social work could formally offer courses on housing and homelessness.