February 21, 2012
There is something truly wonderful about being young and idealistic. While many adults become jaded over time from dealing with terrible bosses, slogging through bureaucratic red tape, and simply working until they are burned out, students fresh out of high school and college still believe that they can change the world, and they have the energy and drive to tackle any challenge. These are the people that will make a difference and they must be encouraged to do so, especially in the crucial field of social work where so many need a helping hand. So if you happen to be studying for a licensure exam in order to enter one of the many specialized fields of social work, there are a couple of great apps for the iPhone, iPod, and iPad that can help you mobilize your study efforts and ensure that you pass.
The first test you will likely have to take is the licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) exam. Although the requirements to become a licensed social worker will vary by state, you generally have to complete specified coursework and supervised work hours before you can take the exam. This will help you to prepare for the written test, but you’ll certainly want to study, as well. And this is where the LCSW Exam Review app can help. It will set you back a mere $2.99 (a pittance when you consider how much exam review books cost) and it comes with a few features that most students will truly appreciate.
This app basically provides you with information in the form of flashcards to help you study for the LCSW Standard Written Examination, and according to the description on iTunes, this comprehensive program should cover “every subject you need to pass the exam”. It may sound like a bold claim, but with almost 800 flashcards at your disposal pertaining to topics like human growth and development, ethics, clinical theories, and even diagnosis, you should find just about everything you need to refresh your memory before the exam. In addition, you can add comments in order to personalize the flashcards for your own usage, and you can even make your own cards to throw into the mix. You may be a bit wary about depending on this handy mobile app to see you through the test, but if you’re worried you can still get the study guides and use the application as an easy supplemental tool.
Of course, there is also a fantastic app available for those shooting for a masters degree in social work; the aptly named Social Work Master’s Exam Prep. It’s a bit more pricy at $4.99, but considering it covers additional topics (like professionalism and practice), it comes with a test mode, and it is endorsed by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) you probably can’t go wrong. After all, you might spend as much on a cup of coffee (which will also help you study, but has a much shorter shelf life). So regardless of which exam you’re studying for, make your life a little easier with one of these inexpensive and useful apps. Most social workers have chosen a difficult professional path, but there’s no reason you can’t have an easier time getting there.
