Social Work and Technology: A Practical Guide for Using Technology in Social Work Practice

Technological innovation has brought changes to the landscape of the social work profession, and these have produced both challenges and opportunities for the field.

Guiding readers through the origins of the policy standards around technology integration including the profession’s charge to explore strategies for harnessing technology for social good, it also examines shifts in philosophical views among practitioners regarding the use of technology as a practice tool and the ethics around their use. Considering both the challenges and opportunities of the utilization of technology in social work practice, it analyses various technological tools, such as ChatGPT, social media, avatars, and metaverse, across different practice levels (micro, mezzo, macro).

Providing practical tips and case-examples, this book will be required reading for practitioners, educators, and students to improve their efficiency, efficacy, and skills with technology while connecting and engaging with clients.

Alex D. Colvin, PhD, LMSW, is an Associate Professor and Chair of Undergraduate Programs at the University of North Texas at Dallas.

M. Sebrena Jackson, PhD, LICSW, is an Associate Professor in the School of Social Work at The University of Alabama.