How do the practicum and research experiences differ?
The practicum is a service-based training experience that includes direct supervision by a specialist in the relevant area of practice. Year after year, students tell us that the practicum is the glue that binds their experience together. For students with substantial prior experience, the practicum provides an opportunity to connect theory and research from coursework to direct experience in the field. The two-semester practicum courses include Pre-practicum (H-380A and H-381A), Practicum (H-380B and H-381B), and Advanced Practicum (H-390 I and II) involve weekly, three-hour didactic and reflective sessions. The research experience provides an opportunity for students to participate in an ongoing research project related to R&P. Sometimes the distinction between practicum and research is vague because some practicum sites are affiliated with research sites, and some research is practice-based. Note that every year, some students elect to participate in both types of experiences.
