Case Management: Advancing Through Levels of Practice

Course overview

Patricia Benner's Novice to Expert theory, adapted from the Dreyfus model, offers a valuable framework for understanding knowledge acquisition in case management. Rather than focusing on abstract theory, Benner emphasizes experiential learning and progression through five stages: Novice, advanced beginner, competent, proficient, and expert. In the early stages, case managers rely on rules and structured guidelines. As they gain experience, they develop pattern recognition and contextual decision-making, transitioning from "book knowledge" to practical, intuitive understanding. Expert case managers respond fluidly to complex situations, integrating clinical insight, system awareness, and mentorship. Because case management has traditionally drawn from experienced nurses and social workers, Benner's model aligns well with how professionals evolve in the field; shifting from procedural competence to mastery through reflective practice and real-world application. The goal of this course is to train case managers about the levels of practice.