Competency 4

Jessica Safley

Engage In Practice-informed Research and

Research-informed Practice
Use practice experience and theory to inform scientific inquiry and

research.
Apply critical thinking to engage in analysis of quantitative and

qualitative research methods and research findings

Use and translate research evidence to inform and improve practice,

policy, and service delivery.

*Each of these behaviors fits well into the description of a Guardian
ad Litem (GAL)*

Use practice experience and theory to inform

scientific inquiry and research
All GALs must attend a 6 week training course
GALs explore the theoretical framework that is used to work with

clients and the population served by the GALs:

o Children, and those caregivers significant in the childs life

Apply critical thinking to engage in analysis of quantitative and

qualitative research methods and research findings
GALs seek to understand the person-in-environment framework

when engaging clients to better grasp their circumstance and

understand their needs.
Understand the developmental stage of the client population,

which is integrated into the assessment.

This is done through the writing down observations and attending

the training course.

Use and translate research evidence to inform and improve practice, policy, and service delivery.

This is accomplished by reviewing and looking over cases in

order to write appropriate recommendations

All findings are discussed with the supervisor