‘We know what we are, but know not what we may be’ – research-minded practitioners and their possible futures in social work

Social work is often presented with new concepts and methods that are taken to heart without much consideration. This study discusses one such new concept – research-minded practitioners – with the aim of investigating its possibilities. This has been done through a critical reading of three texts where the founders describe its building blocks and definition. It is concluded that it may be a viable concept, but it is still in its early days and more studies are needed. The connection between research-minded practitioners and the implied positive link to evidence-based practice is characterized as lacking a foundation. Suggestions are offered for further developing the concept