Showing papers in "Journal of Technology in Human Services in 2014"
TL;DR: The development of telehealth training programs will provide interested professionals with tools required for practice and may serve as an impetus to increase utilization and/or referral.
Abstract: The current study explored psychological and medical professionals’ interest in videoconferencing telehealth training and mental health telehealth referral. An online survey assessed 782 participan...
27 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, an exploration and evaluation of how iPads were used in a Social Welfare Policy course was presented. And the results showed that mobile devices can be both distracting and helpful in completing coursework, and a description of a Policy Advocacy assignment using the iPad was also provided.
Abstract: Social work education has been transformed with the advent of modern digital technologies such as social media. A focus on using new technology to create engaging and creative educational opportunities for modern students comes with benefits and challenges. The following provides an exploration and evaluation of how iPads were used in a Social Welfare Policy course. Students report positive results using the iPad to engage in the course content and assignments. Results also demonstrate that mobile devices can be both distracting and helpful in completing coursework. A description of a Policy Advocacy assignment using the iPad is also provided.
27 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors compared learning objectives achieved in hybrid/online social work courses through MSW student use of avatars and virtual communities to those achieved in a traditional course (n = 25) compared through students' reflections on “cocktail party” exercises occurring either in virtual communities or in class.
Abstract: This study compared learning objectives achieved in hybrid/online social work courses through MSW student use of avatars and virtual communities (n = 25) to those achieved in a traditional course (n = 22). Learning outcomes were compared through students' reflections on “cocktail party” exercises occurring either in virtual communities or in class. The potential for and barriers to successful implementation of virtual communities in social work education are discussed. In summary, virtual communities and avatars present a vital opportunity for individuals to experience different perspectives, which, in turn, can nurture culturally competent skill building.
22 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explored youth consumer preferences for online interventions targeting depression and anxiety and found that youth positively received the idea of, and appreciated the need for, e-mental health services.
Abstract: E-Mental Health services could substantially increase the capacity of the mental health care system. This article explores youth consumer preferences for online interventions targeting depression and anxiety. Twenty-three participants who had experienced suicidal ideation and either depression or anxiety and completed one qualitative interview were included. Interviews were topically guided to cover themes of e-Mental Health service preferences around online help-seeking behavior, appearance, content, privacy, and support. We found that youth positively received the idea of, and appreciated the need for, e-Mental Health services. Noted preferences for services were those that are simple to use, interactive, and include support through an online community.
19 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors outline the interwoven pedagogical and ideological rationales for implementing video composition assignments in social work classes and demonstrate the potential for videos to become tools for social advocacy.
Abstract: In response to emerging active learning strategies, educators throughout the academy are inviting students to create videos and circulate them on social media platforms. The learning benefits of multimodal video composition are manifold, particularly within social work education. Video composition fosters critical thinking, encourages collaboration, and engages audiences that extend beyond the college classroom. Furthermore, when social work students produce videos, they develop technological literacy that prepares them to enter a field with an express commitment to social justice. In this article, we outline the interwoven pedagogical and ideological rationales for implementing video composition assignments in social work classes. Having established a framework for active learning through video composition, we address some pragmatic challenges of multimodal assignments, demonstrate the potential for videos to become tools for social advocacy, and draw connections between technological literacy and practi...
16 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examined how newly qualified teachers and social workers conceptualize and incorporate asynchronous technologies in their professional and private spheres, variation in active participation on social media among the participants reflected a spectrum of opinions regarding the implications of online interaction for new professionals.
Abstract: In a study which examined how newly qualified teachers and social workers conceptualize and incorporate asynchronous technologies in their professional and private spheres, variation in active participation on social media among the participants reflected a spectrum of opinions regarding the implications of online interaction for new professionals. The extent to which online interaction can overlap with ethical expectations attaching to professional roles is an emerging topic in the research literature. This study focused on the activities and experiences of newly qualified professionals. In this article, ethical issues are examined in three categories, namely formation, maintenance, and ending of online relationships.
15 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors identified 100 popular games currently available on major consoles and grouped those games into descriptive genres, and reviewed the literature within each genre to determine potential uses of these popular games for promoting gains in psychotherapy.
Abstract: Over the past few decades, a considerable body of research has developed and used clinical games to achieve clinical goals; however, there is significantly less information about how popular, commercial video games can be used in psychotherapy This article identified 100 popular games currently available on major consoles and grouped those games into descriptive genres Then, the authors reviewed the literature within each genre to determine potential uses of these popular games for promoting gains in psychotherapy A multitheoretical framework is used in providing recommendations Recommendations for future research are also provided
14 citations
TL;DR: By engaging the stakeholders in this early process, the authors were able to identify a range of software functionalities that are likely to improve the applicability for users, as well as identify possible barriers to implementation.
Abstract: Information Communication Technologies (ICT) have resulted in positive outcomes in a range of clinical studies, however, most have not had widespread subsequent uptake, partly because they were not developed with all stakeholder requirements in mind. In the current study, we engaged stakeholders in the concept development stage of a project to transform a psychosocial assessment into an ICT-enabled format. By engaging the stakeholders in this early process we were able to identify a range of software functionalities that are likely to improve the applicability for users, as well as identify possible barriers to implementation.
14 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors reviewed the licensing boards for marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, psychologists, and social workers to determine the legal and ethical practice of online psychotherapy and counseling in the United States.
Abstract: In this descriptive study, the authors reviewed the licensing boards for marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, psychologists, and social workers to determine the legal and ethical practice of online psychotherapy and counseling in the United States. Analyses revealed no differences between professions on whether they permitted online counseling and psychotherapy at the state level. Finally, a number of states directly addressed online clinical practice, many did not address this practice, and no state boards prohibited online counseling and psychotherapy.
13 citations
TL;DR: The authors examined field agency expectations for technology literacy skills in new employees using a conceptual framework that organizes these desired skills of employees by categories including ability to record data, generate information, produce knowledge, and communicate.
Abstract: This study examines field agency expectations for technology literacy skills in new employees using a conceptual framework that organizes these desired skills of employees by categories including: ability to record data, generate information, produce knowledge, and communicate. Findings indicate that MSW graduates are expected to have the highest level of skills related to information and communication, and employers hold fewer expectations related to data and production of knowledge. These findings are concerning because data is the building block for information, knowledge, and communication skills, and social work education has a large knowledge component. Implications for social work education are suggested.
13 citations
TL;DR: Results from this study confirm previous studies' conclusions that online and DL courses are an effective format for social work education.
Abstract: Although interest and development of online and distributed learning (DL) has increased in recent years, the social work community has not fully embraced these formats. Many social work students are unable to commute to universities and DL education can provide degree options. A nonexperimental study using a convenience sample was done comparing student outcomes from campus and DL research methods classes with 44 students. Results indicated that final course scores did not statistically differ by course format. Results from this study confirm previous studies' conclusions that online and DL courses are an effective format for social work education.
TL;DR: This article examined an innovative student-generated video assignment developed for a social work community practice course and found that participants appreciated how the video assignment differed from traditional assignments by offering opportunity for praxis, creativity, and acquisition of technological skills.
Abstract: Experiential learning is a vital aspect of social work education, particularly for teaching community practice. The literature, however, provides few examples of technology-based experiential assignments that educators can implement in their classrooms. This exploratory study examined an innovative student-generated video assignment developed for a social work community practice course. Thirty-seven former students spanning three distinct semesters completed an online survey of closed- and open-ended questions. Findings indicate the video assignment enhanced understanding of community practice and provided a unique diffusion factor. Participants appreciated how the video assignment differed from traditional assignments by offering opportunity for praxis, creativity, and acquisition of technological skills. Educators should note the challenges of student-generated videos to maximize their educational benefit and sustain student receptivity to such assignments. Teaching video-making skills has implications ...
TL;DR: The benefits of incorporating technology, particularly Web 2.0 applications, into education as a way to not only meet students’ changing needs but also to model techniques and skills students can use as counseling practitioners are discussed.
Abstract: This article discusses the benefits of incorporating technology, particularly Web 2.0 applications, into education as a way to not only meet students’ changing needs but also to model techniques and skills students can use as counseling practitioners. Furthermore, this article provides four concrete Web-based applications and suggestions for use in both clinical and school counseling settings. In addition, the examples portray an isomorphic perspective of teaching and clinical practice; when students practice technological interventions in the classroom, they are better able to incorporate these techniques in counseling.
TL;DR: A feasibility study examined the suitability of an intimate partner violence interactive online decision aid developed in the United States for its application in New Zealand, particularly with regard to cultural appropriateness.
Abstract: Women experiencing intimate partner violence face complex decisions in navigating their safety. In a feasibility study, we examined the suitability of an intimate partner violence interactive online decision aid developed in the United States for its application in New Zealand, particularly with regard to cultural appropriateness. We conducted focus group sessions with women who experienced partner violence and focus group sessions with service providers. Women completed the U.S. online decision aid tool and provided feedback on the safety decision criteria, content, and design. Considering the findings from the focus group sessions the decision aid was modified. We reflect on the process of balancing women's stories with technical limitations and constraints of a replication study.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors assess knowledge and competency in a course dedicated to clinical practice with dyads using easily accessible technology, and they discuss implications for competency-based education, the need for future studies with stronger designs and ongoing attention to technological considerations for using role-play to enhance competencies.
Abstract: Using easily accessible technology, I assessed Masters of Social Work students’ knowledge and competency in a course dedicated to clinical practice with dyads. Forty students completed the Dyadic Knowledge and Competency Scale before and after a video-recorded role-play assignment. Results of paired t-tests revealed significant improvement from pretest to posttest in knowledge and competency, and qualitative results punctuated role-play and feedback as important means to gain competency in clinical practice with dyads. I discuss implications for competency-based education, and the need for future studies with stronger designs and ongoing attention to technological considerations for using role-play to enhance competencies.
TL;DR: Technology utilized in this case study includes Web 2.0 tools which support collaboration and social interaction such as videologs, a blog, and other free and easy-to-access software.
Abstract: Maintaining fidelity to social work interventions and research protocols is difficult in the best of situations, but even more complex when interventions are carried out in multiple sites by multiple interveners over a wide geographic span. Previous research does not exist on the use of social media to support fidelity. This article offers a case study on ways technology was harnessed to support fidelity in a federally funded practice-based research intervention project. Technology utilized in this case study includes Web 2.0 tools which support collaboration and social interaction (Murugesan, 2007) such as videologs, a blog, and other free and easy-to-access software.
TL;DR: The use of geographic information systems (GIS) has been steadily increasing since initial applications first appeared in the social work literature in the mid-1990s, however, this increase is not as substantial as one might think.
Abstract: The use of geographic information systems (GIS) has been steadily increasing since initial applications first appeared in the social work literature in the mid-1990s. However, this increase is not as substantial as one might think. A possible cause for this is the seeming lack of content on GIS that is included in the social work curriculum. In 2003, an elective course in GIS application was developed at a school of social work in the Northeast region of the United States. The course objective was to promote the use of GIS in the field for social services planning, practice, and research. Through hands-on tutorials, the course introduces students to the basic functions of a variety of GIS software including online programs, such as SocialExplorer and BatchGeo, as well as the commercial software package ArcGIS. Participants also learn to locate and manage data from public domain sources and are introduced to advanced spatial analysis tools. This training allows social work students and professionals to pur...
TL;DR: In this article, the perceived influence of adoption of personal electronic response systems (clickers) on undergraduate and graduate social work education by students with and without disabilities and limited English proficiency (LEP) was investigated.
Abstract: This study investigates the perceived influence of adoption of personal electronic response systems (clickers) on undergraduate and graduate social work education by students with and without disabilities and limited English proficiency (LEP). A mixed methods exploratory quasi-experimental (posttest only) design was used in this study of instructional technology in social work education. Self-report questionnaires were completed by 30 undergraduate and graduate students, and follow-up telephonic interviews were conducted with a subsample of 6 students with disabilities or LEP. Correlates examined were student status, level of life stress, and usage status. Qualitative themes emerged suggesting that students with LEP and with varied sensory, cognitive, and physical disabilities found clickers to be helpful in increasing their class participation and as assistive technology to support their learning. Student status and achievement associations with clicker use perception were explored to determine whether t...
TL;DR: In this article, a virtual implementation model informed by the Technology Acceptance Model was undertaken with three tribal child welfare agencies to design a management information system based on traditional child welfare practice models.
Abstract: There are 565 federally-recognized tribes who are independent sovereign nations in the United States. These tribes have varying capacity to manage and administer child welfare programs. Although many tribes have a Children's Code directing child welfare practice, standardized practice models—including procedures, policies, and subsequent forms and documentation—are not common, and management information systems are rare. A virtual implementation model informed by the Technology Acceptance Model was undertaken with three tribal child welfare agencies to design a management information system based on tribal child welfare practice models. Description and discussion of the implementation process, future research required, and lessons learned from the implementation project are presented. This article will inform Native American tribes, states who work with tribes, and rural area agencies similar in context as the tribal agencies.
TL;DR: The Journal of Technology in Human Services (JTHS) started in 1985, but had its roots in the Computer Use in Social Services Network (CUSSN) quarterly newsletter which I edited from 1981-1991 as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: The Journal of Technology in Human Services (JTHS) started in 1985, but had its roots in the Computer Use in Social Services Network (CUSSN) quarterly newsletter which I edited from 1981–1991. Thes...
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TL;DR: In this article, the authors evaluate Grant's legacy and the task he leaves behind at the Robert Clack School and the question of sustainability emerges, this time tempered by the news that the headteacher successor is Russell Taylor, who began his career towards educational leadership as a former student and freshly qualified teacher of the school.
Abstract: Life is finite, as was the era of sustained improvement under the leadership of (Sir) Paul Grant at the Robert Clack School. In July 2017, Sir Paul Grant retired from the post as headteacher after 20 years of service in that role. In this final chapter, we evaluate his legacy and the task he leaves behind. Once more the question of sustainability emerges, this time tempered by the news that the headteacher successor is Russell Taylor, the deputy headteacher who began his career towards educational leadership as a former student and freshly qualified teacher of the school. As a young man who grew up in Dagenham and knew the school in its ‘dark days’, he is well qualified to determine the school’s future as he demonstrates in the closing statement of this study.