Faculty publishes open-access handbook, supports recently admitted DSW students 

Dr. Priscilla Llamosa’s open-access Handbook for recently admitted Doctor of Social Work (DSW) students addresses the unique challenges and opportunities of community-based learning.

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LEXINGTON, Ky. — Priscilla Llamosa (formerly Norris), faculty member at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), has published an open-source book, Handbook for the Recently Admitted: A Practical Guide for the University of Kentucky’s Doctor of Social Work Students. The book was published by the University of Kentucky Libraries and funded by the Open Educational Resources (OER) Grant. 

The inspiration for the handbook came from Llamosa’s unique perspective as both a graduate of the program and a faculty member. “Joining these experiences through the scholarship of teaching and learning felt like a natural next step,” said Llamosa. The book seeks to address the distinct challenges of Doctor of Social Work (DSW) students, who engage in a community of learning rather than the traditional mentorship-based model characteristic of PhD programs. 

The handbook provides practical guidance and insights for new DSW students, offering valuable topics such as writing strategies, self-care, and effective collaboration with peers.  

Llamosa highlights Chapter One as particularly significant, as it demystifies doctoral education and normalizes the anxiety students may experience when beginning their journey.  

“Historically, doctoral education has been perceived as elitist and unattainable for individuals with diverse backgrounds or full-time employment. This book helps level the playing field,” she added. 

The OER Grant played a crucial role in bringing the project to fruition. Llamosa was able to dedicate substantial time to writing and received invaluable support from OER grant manager Stephen Krueger. “His guidance was instrumental in navigating the publishing platform and ensuring the project’s success,” she said. 

Looking ahead, Llamosa is excited about the upcoming second edition of the handbook, expected to be published in Fall 2025. New content will include a chapter on mastering APA 7th edition, guidance on conceptualizing and writing the capstone project, and strategies for disseminating academic work through conferences and peer-reviewed journals. A notable addition will be a collaborative chapter with colleagues on the ethical use of generative AI in academic work. 

The handbook has already made a significant impact, being adopted as an official text for SW852 Introduction to Doctoral Studies.  

“This is an invaluable resource for our DSW students,” shared Dr. Laura Escobar-Ratliff, Director of the Doctor of Social Work Program at the College of Social Work. program. “It provides essential guidance while reinforcing our program’s commitment to accessibility, innovation, and student success. By demystifying doctoral education and fostering a strong learning community, this work helps ensure that students not only succeed but thrive in their academic journey with us.”  

To further promote the handbook, Llamosa plans to share it on LinkedIn and encourages its use among DSW students and faculty. The book is accessible via the UK OER LibGuides and OER Commons, ensuring ease of access for all students. 

For more information, visit the handbook online at: https://saalck.pressbooks.pub/dsw-handbook/ or view the OER Grant Awardee page at: https://libguides.uky.edu/oer/awardees

For over 85 years, the College of Social Work (CoSW) at the University of Kentucky has been a leader in education. Our mission is clear: Through rigorous research, excellence in instruction, and steadfast service, the CoSW works to improve the human condition. Always, in all ways.

As the state’s flagship university, our mission is actualized through our deeds. Our faculty are renowned academicians dedicated to fostering the development of high-quality practitioners and researchers. As a college, we promote community and individual well-being through translational research and scholarship, exemplary teaching, and vital community engagement. We are committed to the people and social institutions throughout Kentucky, the nation, and the world.