Formation of value orientations of future social workers through new media

Abstract

The article addresses the pressing issue of forming value orientations among students majoring in social work under the conditions of digitalization and the growing role of the information and communication environment. Value orientations are a key component of a social worker's professional identity, determining their ability to make ethically sound decisions, adhere to professional standards, and act responsibly in interactions with clients and communities. Today, new media—social networks, video platforms, blogs, podcasts—serve not only as channels for information dissemination but also as independent environments where students’ beliefs, ethical stances, and professional identities are shaped.

The purpose of the study is to analyze the specific ways in which new media influence the formation of value orientations in future social workers.

The objectives of the study are: to define theoretical approaches to understanding the essence of value orientations in the context of professional education; to analyze the role of new media as a factor of student socialization; and to identify the opportunities and risks of using digital platforms in the process of shaping professional values.

The methodological basis of the study includes the analysis of academic literature, content analysis, comparative methods, and interpretation of empirical data (including findings from UNESCO, the Council of Europe, Pew Research Center, etc.).

The paper outlines both the positive aspects of new media (increased access to knowledge, development of critical thinking, stimulation of empathy) and associated risks (fragmented perception of reality, information “bubbles”, reduced ethical sensitivity, and the influence of misinformation). New media are presented as a space of ethical choice, where future social workers not only consume but also create content, reflecting their personal value systems.

The study analyzes specific mechanisms for integrating digital content into the educational process: the use of social networks in professional communication, viewing of thematic videos and podcasts, participation in digital awareness campaigns, and the creation of personal social projects online. Emphasis is placed on the importance of developing media literacy, ethical reflection, the ability to recognize manipulative content, and the formation of a conscious attitude toward professional activity in the digital context.

The article concludes that new media can serve not only as a challenge but also as a resource for the professional development of future social workers —provided they are used thoughtfully and critically. Practical recommendations are offered for educators, university administrations, students, and the professional community regarding the creation of a digital educational space that supports the development of value-oriented, ethically aware specialists in the field of social work.