Inquiry-Based Learning about Technologies in Social Work Education

ABSTRACT

This article explores the value of technology education in the social work curriculum and advocates an integrated approach where students study potential technology applications in a real-world context. We include, by way of illustration, a descriptive account of an inquiry-based learning class where students conducted research on how digital media might support education and therapy for children with special needs. The resulting student learning is mapped to the U.S. standards for technology and social work practice, and the main challenges arising from this approach are reviewed.

KEYWORDS:

• Inclusion
• inquiry-based learning
• media literacy
• preschool education
• social work education
• technology education

Acknowledgement

We would like to express our great appreciation to Neil Ballantyne for his valuable and constructive suggestions on improving the article.