Social Work Practice and Artificial Intelligence for the Common Good: Ethics, Equity, and Innovation in Human Services

Social Work Practice and Artificial Intelligence for the Common Good is the first university-level textbook to address how artifical intelligence (AI) can be leveraged for the common good without reproducing systemic inequities, whilst also addressing how social workers can develop the digital literacy necessary to evaluate, design, and ethically use AI tools.

Drawing on global case studies, practice-based examples, and a range of pedagogical tools, this book:

• Introduces AI concepts in plain language for non-technical learners.
• Explores ethical dilemmas, bias, and the implications of automation in human services.
• Connects AI use cases to micro, mezzo, and macro practice levels.
• Provides tools for advocacy, policy engagement, and community-based technology design.
• Positions social workers as active shapers of emerging technologies rather than passive adopters.
• Embeds equity, human rights, and the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics into AI discussions.

Offering chapter-critical thinking questions, empowerment-focused activities, reflection prompts, interviews with experts, and support materials, this textbook will be relevant to all students of social work, public policy, and human services. This book will also be of interest to practitioners in nonprofit and public service sectors, and faculty members looking to advance their understanding and infuse AI literacy in their courses.

Othelia EunKyoung Lee is a professor at UNC Charlotte School of Social Work. Dr. Lee’s research focuses on the development, implementation, and evaluation of innovative community-based interventions aimed at improving health behaviors among older adults. Some highlights of her scholarship include over 100 articles in mental health, gerontology, cultural diversity, and technology.

Moon Sun Song is a research professor at Kangnam University in South Korea, specializing in interdisciplinary care research merging social welfare with AI and ICT. By leading the “Welfare Technology Living Lab,” she fosters a sustainable welfare tech ecosystem, driving industry–academia collaborations that connect technology enterprises with social welfare agencies.