“Ignoring It Is a Problem”: Social Work Student Perspectives on the Opportunities and Threats of Artificial Intelligence for Practice and Education

The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in social work is enhancing teaching through innovative technologies and is already changing how we prepare students for the workforce. While AI offers significant potential to revolutionize social work practice and education, its integration requires careful attention to ethical considerations to ensure its responsible and equitable use. This study explores the role of AI in social work through structured interviews with 15 social work students, uncovering five key themes: the effect of AI on social work practice, policy, and research; its applications and utility in various settings; its role in enhancing efficiency; its integration into social work education; and its limitations within the field. The findings highlight students’ optimism and curiosity about AI’s potential to improve social work, while also holding some level of skepticism about the implications of AI algorithms for marginalized client groups. This study underscores the need for thoughtful adoption of AI technologies to support the welfare of vulnerable populations and advance social work education.