Be sure to utilize all headings, including paragraph headings, in your journal. Paragraph Headings: What, So What, Now What, Summary.
What: State facts and observations of the event/situation. (objective)
So What: Students to present personal thoughts, reflections, and/or feelings about the event/situation. May also include a discussion about how your perspective has changed. (subjective)
Now What: Based on educational knowledge already possessed or learned, how does that knowledge affect your future behavior or action in connection with the event/situation? Clearly connect knowledge with social work practice. (see explanation below)
Summary: Brief overview of the journal. Each heading discussion should be about the same event/situation.
Discuss knowledge that you learned or know through your education and how you applied that to your practice in field placement. Why are you doing what you are doing as a social worker?
Journals should be no more than 2 pages in length and double-spaced.