Adopting e-Social Work Practice: Pedagogical Strategies for Student Decision Making to Address Technology Uncertainty

• Published in: Journal of social work education 2021-04, Vol.57 (2), p.383-397
• Main Authors: Wilkerson, David A., Wolfe-Taylor, Samantha N., Kinney, M. Killian
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adoption (Ideas); Advocacy; Decision Making; Delivery Systems; Ethics; Graduate Students; Helping Relationship; Information Security; Introductory Courses; Online Courses; Practicums; Privacy; Professional practice; Professional training; Program Effectiveness; Self Efficacy; Social Work; Student Attitudes; Students; Teaching; Technological Literacy; Technology; Telecommunications; Uncertainty
• ISSN: 1043-7797; 2163-5811
• DOI: 10.1080/10437797.2019.1661920

Student technology uncertainty was investigated in an introductory e-Social Work (e-SW) practice course. e-SW practice includes technology-mediated advocacy, research, and services delivery. A convergent parallel mixed methods design included pre- and post-test e-SW self-efficacy surveys and student reflections. There were significant measurable changes in the practice self efficacy scale and sub-scales. Thematic analysis demonstrated the course addressed student needs for increasing their knowledge and confidence prior to engaging in e-SW practice. Privacy and security regulation compliance showed the least increase in self-efficacy and should be an area for further development in future e-SW courses. The findings contribute to a growing literature supporting the need for investment in harnessing technology for future growth in the field of social work.