1.1

Pre-Service Institute - Introduction

P S I

The 9-week Pre-Service Institute (PSI) is a combination of classroom, online, and on--the-job training (OJT) designed to help new caseworkers learn and put into practice the basic skills necessary to meet the complex needs of the children and families served by the Michigan child welfare system.

PSI training is a step-by–step process that takes many months and requires the help of many people.

Training staff and local office supervisors share the majority of the responsibility for this task.

To assure that concepts learned in the classroom are transferred to the work they do in the local office, new hires, their colleagues, and supervisors must all take an active role in the learning process during PSI training.

This is accomplished by the following:

1. Supervisor designates an experienced caseworker (mentor) for each new hire. This person must not have a caseload exceeding current caseload standards.

2. Supervisor, mentor, and new workers will need to read the Transfer of Learning (TOL) Guide and Training Expectations.

3. Every week the new hire and supervisor review completed OJT activities, supervisor signs the weekly or program specific form, and new hire submits to trainer. OJT activities are designed to reinforce classroom learning and provide an opportunity to apply the concepts learned to the job.

4. New hire takes two competency-based exams (one if they are a CWC holder). If each one is passed (70% or higher) a progressive caseload can be assigned. Please refer to the TOL for details.

5. During the final community week of the PSI the trainer and supervisor will jointly complete the New Worker Evaluation Summary. If the supervisor determines the new worker is ready for casework, a caseload that is up to current standards may be assigned after the final day of PSI training.

(SRM 103)

6. A training plan is devised by the new hire and supervisor; assuring continued development and compliance with in-service training requirements. Professional development opportunities should be encouraged throughout the career of the child welfare caseworker.

MDHHS Policy can be accessed from any internet device.