Social Work Students Learning Through Virtual Technology

Alabama A&M University’s Social Work Department is a recipient of the Title IV-E Grant, and the funding from this grant has been instrumental in providing training utilizing the Mursion system, according to program coordinators within the Department.

This system allows professors the opportunity to customize the student’s learning experience and create educational training. Students develop and practice social work skills in a virtual setting, and they interact with computerized individuals, families and groups. Students also interview clients and receive feedback by engaging in various case scenarios through the Dora’s House Child Welfare Simulation Lab.

Some of their training include: 1) conducting child abuse and neglect home investigations, 2) interventions with families and 3) opioid and substance abuse assessment case scenarios. This training allows students to demonstrate their skills on a one-on-one basis, in a group-based practice.

Dora’s House was name after Dora Cook, an alumna of Alabama A&M University Graduate Social Work Program, who was instrumental in assisting faculty with the creation of the simulation lab.

The professors are developing new methods of teaching their students with the use of the Mursion Virtual Learning Program. Additionally, virtual learning curriculums for the Social Work Methods and Diversity courses are being developed with this technology. The students also are participating in the development of skills that will prepare them for the competitive market in the global social work field of practice.

For additional information, contact Helen L. Egson, MSW, MSW field education coordinator; or Dora Cook, MSW, Opioid Impacted Family Support Program project coordinator.