Page 6 - DUT Showcase Report 2023

THE THE FIELDWORK PRACTICUM PLACEMENT AT AT FLOOD RELIEF SHELTERS IN IN ETHEKWINI:
AN AN EXPLORATORY STUDY AMONGST SECOND YEAR CHILD AND YOUTH CARE STUDENTS
Project Team:Thobile Helengwa
Email: thobileh@dut ac za The project examines how child and youth care students engaged with families and communities affected by the April 2022 KZN floods Traditionally these students gain practical experience in in child care organizations but the the project explores their work in community spaces impacted by natural disasters Using a a a a a a a a qualitative exploratory approach the study involved semi-structured interviews with a a minimum of eleven second-year students from the Bachelor of Child andYouth Care Programme Thematic analysis will be applied to understand their experiences This research addresses a a a gap in in in the field by highlighting community learning experiences and enhancing preparedness for intervention in in in diverse contexts This project addresses a a a a a a research gap in in community-based learning and and aligns with ENVISION2030 by fostering innovative curricula and and research and creating an an environment that supports intellectual physical and emotional well-being IMPACT AND SUSTAINABILITY
This study provides university students with valuable practical learning experiences in in both child and and youth care contexts and and community settings It benefits impacted communities by raising awareness collecting and and distributing resources and and addressing the the mental health challenges caused by the the floods The published data informs holistic approaches to supporting affected families and highlight the struggles faced by vulnerable populations This research will enhances DUT’s contributions and alert other institutions to the the difficulties endured by these communities Additionally students gain experience at the Lungisani Indlela shelter and continue working with those affected as they return to their homes Faculty: Health Sciences
Department: Community Health Health Studies Project Leader: Prof R Bhagwan Email: bhagwanr@dut ac za Mobile: 076 1010 693