Developing the digital skills of future social workers as a factor in modernizing the social services system
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25128/2520-6230.26.1.12Keywords:
digital competence, modernization of social work, digitization, proactive support, technological and conceptual levelsAbstract
The article provides a theoretical justification and structuring of the levels of digital competence of future social workers in the context of global digitalization and reform of the social protection system. The author argues that the exponential development of information and communication technologies has determined the transition from a reactive model of service delivery to proactive support, where digital literacy is becoming an integral part of professional competence. The novelty of the study lies in the development and detailing of a two-level structure of digital competence: technological and conceptual levels, where the first is based on the European DigComp framework and includes “hard skills” (working with the Unified Information System of the Social Sphere, registers, ensuring cybersecurity and protecting clients' personal data in accordance with current legislation), while the second integrates digital tools into the ethical and humanistic paradigm of social work, covering critical literacy, digital inclusion, advocacy for the rights of vulnerable groups in the digital space, and the use of artificial intelligence for predictive analytics of social risks.
Particular attention is paid to the applied tools for developing these competencies in higher education institutions. The author justifies the feasibility of introducing training in the use of assistive technologies (ElliQ, Eye-tracking), VR/AR reality for PTSD rehabilitation, and inclusive chatbots (Be My Eyes, Seeing AI) into the educational process. The author concludes that bridging the digital divide within the profession and forming a holistic digital culture among specialists is a strategic lever for modernizing the industry. This allows for the automation of routine processes, minimization of corruption risks, and freeing up specialist resources for direct psycho-emotional support to people who find themselves in difficult life circumstances.
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