Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Challenges for the Social Education and Profession

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly advancing and holds both opportunities and risks for the social work profession. This review article provides an analysis of the potential applications and implications of AI technologies for social work practice, education, research, and ethics. The article highlights promising uses of AI tools like predictive risk models, virtual simulations, chatbots, and data analytics to enhance social work services and training. However, it also critically examines the ethical considerations and social justice concerns related to the integration of AI in social work, including issues of privacy, transparency, accountability, consent, bias, displacement of roles, and threats to human dignity. To responsibly leverage AI's benefits while mitigating its risks, the article offers recommendations for social workers to collaborate on AI design, follow ethical protocols, pursue education on AI, and conduct further research. Key areas for future research identified include studying client perspectives on AI, testing the efficacy of AI systems for social work tasks, auditing algorithms for bias, and analyzing AI's impact on social work employment. In conclusion, while acknowledging AI's significant potential, the article emphasizes that purposeful oversight, participatory design, and adherence to social work values must remain priorities to ensure AI promotes dignity, autonomy, and justice. This review provides a balanced, evidence-based analysis to inform discussions on optimizing AI's integration in the social work profession.