Innovation Matters 2024
A Message from the Dean
We are often most focused on developing new and more effective therapies, systems, and processes for clients. It is, after all, for those individuals and families that most social workers choose to enter the field. But as scholars who are training future generations of these professionals and developing the tools they’ll engage, we must also consider how to strengthen and support systems for practitioners. In this issue of Innovation Matters, we look at leveraging new technology to help crisis workers balance a critical call load, improving the skills development of new child welfare workers, and changing the way agencies allocate resources to serve those experiencing homelessness.
— Philip Osteen, PhD
Dean & Professor
Innovation Now
Juggling Crises: Using AI to Support Clients and Clinicians
“Typically, when we talk about case load, we measure that on a scale of days, weeks, months. But for text-based crisis counselors, we’re talking about case load by the minute.”
Redefining Learning in Child Welfare: A New Era of Simulation-Based Training
“It’s scary to knock on a door, knowing you might change the lives of the people inside. Developing that eagerness and willingness to knock is huge.”
Navigating Homeless Vulnerability: A Student's Journey into Assessment and Equity
“My analysis considers how we understand homeless vulnerability assessment’s reliability and validity from a more holistic perspective, an approach that has not been looked at in previous research.”
Innovate With Us
The University of Utah College of Social Work is currently seeking dynamic tenure-track and career-track faculty candidates to contribute to the strategic growth of the College. A leader in social work education in the Intermountain West, we offer an inclusive and challenging learning environment where BSW, MSW, and PhD students are encouraged to collaborate with faculty, peers, and community partners in analyzing and resolving critical social challenges. Find out more here!