Social Workers Needed to Deliver Tech-Focused CEUs

Approximately seven years ago the U.S. Bureau of Labor released a report indicating the Social Work profession was expected to grow by 25% by the year 2020. During this time many of us working in Social Work higher education saw consistent year-over-year increases in student applications for admission to BSW and MSW programs, resulting in healthy enrollment growth. In addition to increased student enrollment in older established programs, there was also an increase in the number of new Social Work programs. While the profession continues to grow, many new and mid-career Social Workers have expressed concern that training in contemporary issues and new treatment techniques rooted in technology use/abuse have not kept pace. I have written previously on this Blog and Twitter about the need to expose and formally train Social Work students about issues related to technology and new technology based practice modalities; nearly everyday I am astonished by the growing body of research related to the impact of technology on social functioning.  Although there is growing interest in the area of the influence of technology and social media on the Social Work profession, there continues to be a dearth of continuing education (CE) training opportunities related to these areas for licensed Social Workers.

The NASW Code of Ethics reminds us to practice in areas in which we are qualified; however, there are not adequate technology-focused CE programs, content in BSW/MSW programs, or post-degree certificate programs to adequately prepare social workers to practice in our ever-increasing technology infused culture. I have been a regular user of Twitter, Google+, Podcasts and other social media platforms for several years. There are now several technology communities of Social Workers using these media and I have found their posts educational, thought provoking, and even inspirational. Many of these tech-savvy Social Workers are employed by colleges/universities as faculty and administrators, a few are in direct practice. These Social Workers are scattered across the United States (and abroad) and share their knowledge through regular e-posts. 

I often find myself thinking how wonderful it would be to learn more about the information these trailblazing Social Workers share, and that I would be even willing to travel out-state to attend interesting CE trainings delivered by these amazing Social Workers. As we enter 2014, I would like to issue a personal challenge my fellow techie Social Workers to organize and create opportunities to share their knowledge with others through the development of quality, NASW approved CE workshops/conferences for Social Workers, by Social Workers. Given the quickly evolving world of technology and social media and its impact on mental health and social functioning, Social Workers are Needed to Deliver Tech-Focused CEUs! Let's get on-board!

Dream a Beautiful Dream...

It is hard to believe we are quickly approaching the end of yet another year. As we prepare ourselves to say goodbye to 2013, let us begin planning (YES, PLANNING) for what we would like 2014 to bring. Although I am a strong believer in destiny (I don't believe in coincidence), I also believe we must dream big dreams and pursue our passions. I am so very grateful to have experienced and achieved what I have in 2013. Much of what I experienced in 2013 was first conceived or envisioned in 2012. I have had an amazing life thus far and feel incredibly blessed. God has allowed me to dream big dreams and not to become paralyzed by fear. Whenever I am faced with fear or uncertainty, I trust that all will be fine and then do what I hold within my power to make it so. I give myself permission to dream and try new experiences that will challenge and help me to grow. My goals are almost always based on my dreams of what I would like to achieve or experience. My gift to those of you reading my blog is the gift of a dream. Do allow yourself to think about the possibilities of what if... and dream a beautiful dream for 2014. 

It's Time for a Digital Blackout

I knew I might be a candidate for a Digital Blackout a few weeks ago when while engaged in Sunday School at Church I found myself reaching for my cell phone rather than the physical Bible resting on the back of the church bench just in front of me. I actually felt more comfortable peeling back my purse zipper, gently reaching inside and discretely sliding my cell phone out and opening my Bible App.

I use my cell phone frequently for everyday simple tasks as well as solving complex problems. My cell is much more than a phone to me, it has come to feel like a natural extension of myself. When I reached for my cell instead of the physical Bible, I knew I might have a digital problem. As I opened the Bible App and very quickly arrived at the passage the Pastor referenced, I caught myself thinking how smart I was to have located the biblical verse within a few clicks. I stood waiting for my fellow parishioners to locate the verse, and listened to the pages of multiple Bibles rustling back and forth as some had minor challenges locating the content.

As a waited, I briefly contemplated if I had become too dependent on my technology. I wondered if church was an appropriate place to use a cell phone, even if I used it to access a Bible App, especially when I had so many physical Bibles available to me. Although I grew up in the church I no longer felt entirely comfortable navigating a physical Bible. Interestingly, a few weeks earlier I noticed a church leader using her cell phone to participate in the responsive reading. When I saw her using her cell phone rather than a traditional Bible I recall initially experiencing a judgment, yes a judgment... It just didn't feel "right" to me in that moment that a leader would be openly using her cell to read aloud a response to God's word. When I caught myself, I genuinely felt embarrassed. I know technology has facilitated our learning and engagement on multiple levels in a variety of settings.


Although I embrace technology for its user friendly, responsive, accessible use anywhere and anytime, I do believe I may be a bit too dependent. This coming Sunday I intend to unplug and engage in a 24 hour partial "Digital Blackout". During my 24 hour partial digital blackout I will abstain from mobile technology; I will not use my cell phone, iPad, or laptop. This brief detox from technology will be a big step for me given how much technology has become an integral part of my life. My cell phone has become my friend who entertains me whenever I am bored, find myself in an uneasy situation, or simply need to disengage. It is for these reasons and others that I must do a better job reconnecting with myself and those around me; therefore, without hesitation "it's time for a digital blackout"!

Life Is Good!

I love the fall season and everything it represents, including "back to school", establishing new friendships, renewing old relationships, complaining there is too much football on television and not enough romantic movies I can watch while outstretched on the couch on a chilly Saturday afternoon.

I love being able to wear in-between fashions when the weather is cool enough for boots, yet warm enough to comfortably wear regular sleeves. I love the fall season and promising myself this year I'll make it to an apple orchard and actually take an old fashioned hay ride (still not likely to happen, but I love dreaming about it and the possibilities). I love living in the moment and being grateful for all I have been blessed with in life, including my health (mental and physical), my amazing husband, incredible family and friends, and now a new job that brings me joy and the ability to make a positive difference in the lives of others on a daily basis. Life can't get much better than that! I thank GOD for those of you that read my blog monthly and take time to share your thoughts with me off-line.

Life is good, life is to be enjoyed to its fullest while making a difference. The little things in life have the ability to make the greatest impact. Last week while driving on the freeway to work an "18-wheeler" needed to merge in the lane I was driving. Several cars in front of me failed to allow the truck to merge, but I was in no hurry and gave the truck room to enter the lane. Once the truck was in position, I then merged into another lane and passed the truck. I glanced at the truck driver in my mirror and he gave me a gracious wave of appreciation. When I saw his wave of gratitude, it warmed my heart. I found myself still smiling several miles down the freeway, initially I wasn't even aware I was still smiling. Much to my surprise, later that day that small gesture of gratitude stayed with me. That simple act of appreciation made a difference to me and my action made a difference to the driver of the truck. It's the small things in life that can make a major difference in how we feel about ourselves and treat others.

As we begin to immerse ourselves in our new fall routines, let us remember that regardless of the challenges and responsibilities we grapple with to take the time to enjoy the season and all it has to offer. Please be kind to others, LIFE IS GOOD!

My Letter of Resignation: When You Know It's Time to Leave

After nearly 21 years (and four jobs) with the same university employer, I decided it was time for change and a new environment. My professional experience as a Social Worker has only included work in university settings. I have had an amazingly blessed career thus far and have been afforded opportunities I never could have imagined. Working in universities allowed me to complete my PhD (paid for by the university), travel across the United States to attend and present at conferences, meet interesting people from all over the world, have almost 30 days of annual vacation, great benefits and many other wonderful perks.

On the morning of Monday, August 19th as I sat in what was scheduled to be a full day Administrative Retreat, I tendered my two week letter of resignation. I actually submitted my resignation as an email attachment (using an App called "SignNow") because I was formally offered a position by my new college employer on August 19th and needed to report for my first day on the job September 3rd. This new employment opportunity came at a critical time in my life when I was seeking change, I needed change. I decided I would take action toward change during early July while on vacation; I applied for three college related positions. I received interviews for all three positions, and after the first round of interviews decided which institution would best fit my needs and interests and subsequently withdrew my candidacy from two of the three positions.

While I do not recommend giving an employer of 21 years a letter of resignation electronically and only two weeks notice (because you will want to avoid burning bridges), I had to submit the letter immediately in order to meet the minimum two week notice. I think sometimes we stay in positions too long because we become accustomed to the duties/expectations and can many times perform the job as second nature. While I was informed by supervisors I was very innovative and productive in my role, I did not want to ever become a disgruntled Social Worker or administrator, and when I began to see myself developing these negative behaviors, I decided it was time to leave.

I am excited to begin the new professional chapter in my life and I am sure other life changes are sure to follow. In retrospect, while it has only been just over one week since I submitted my letter of resignation, I've known in my heart it was time to leave over a year ago. If you are experiencing a need for workplace change, please take the time to think about it and if you are truly happy doing what you are doing. There is no room for fear to keep us stagnate where we no longer belong. Ask yourself if you are impacting those around you positively or negatively. Life can be wonderful if we are engaged in work that truly makes us happy and fulfilled and we are having a positive impact on others.

I recently heard a TV Pastor share with his audience "don't stay where you are tolerated, go where you are celebrated". He followed by stating, "if you can't be positive, at least be quiet". Those words resonated with me and served as a catalyst for me in e/affecting change in my life.

If you are no longer happy at work and do not see how this will change in the near future, or if your behavior is not positively adding to those around you, know when it's time to leave.

Infusing ICT Content Across the Social Work Curriculum

I feel extremely blessed to have the opportunity to regularly deliver workshops to Social Workers for professional Continuing Education (CE) credit for the purpose of state licensure. Last week I delivered a session on cyberbully prevention and responsible use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) - this workshop included one hour of ethics content. During the final hour of the CE workshop I discussed ethical challenges related to ICTs and the role of the profession. During this segment of the workshop it became painfully evident to me social workers are not receiving adequate training or exposure related to ethical challenges/dilemmas and our use of ICTs and the impact on those we serve. Social workers can and do use ICTs across the generational spectrum, including work with Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y and now Generation iY. Our use of technology also crosses all areas of practice, such as using Apps and technology to help aging Baby Boomers remain in their homes safely and using social media to engage youth in quality after school programming.

The NASW Code of Ethics speaks to social workers practicing in areas in which we are properly trained and educated. Today, there are over 25,000 online support groups, Skype and Facetime have become methods of service delivery, and there are a myriad of technology based treatment models that have been tested and shown to be efficacious. Some social workers have embraced the use of technology in direct practice, while others in higher education settings are conducting valuable research and training students how to use these models through classroom and field work pilot experiences.

As a longstanding member of the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) since the early 2000s (and regular attendee at APM), and member of NASW since 1988, I remain hopeful CSWE will seriously explore the importance of exposing social work students to ICTs and direct social work practice by integrating this content across all areas of the social work curriculum. Exposing social work students to this critical content will broaden their world view, expand their knowledge of effective treatment modalities, reduce social workers' risk for inappropriate use of social media and ICTs (that have the potential to negatively impact their clients/patients/consumers), and raise social workers' awareness of the ethics of practice in cyberspace, a fast growing and largely unregulated area of practice. I am also hopeful NASW will strongly encourage interested social workers to develop innovative CE workshops to aid in addressing the technology training gap for those already in the field holding full licensure.

I am a strong supporter of both CSWE and NASW and plan to continue my membership for as long as I live; however, I believe infusing ICT content across the social work curriculum will better prepare social workers to work with today's issues and those yet to be born tomorrow and well into the future...

Teaching SW Students Digital Activism & Community Engagement

This fall 2013 in my Introduction to Social Work (SW 1010) course I will engage students in a "Digital Activism & Community Engagement Project” using iPad. This classroom project will allow me to hire five Peer Mentors (PMs) who will each lead a group of approximately 5-7 students in a unique semester-long activity with a special emphasis on how the iPad can be used as a tool for effective digital activism, group engagement, and community service. Each of these projects will require students to demonstrate how their activities relate to social work practice. SW 1010 has featured the use of PMs and service learning group projects for over two years; however, this year the course will teach students how to actively integrate mobile technology in community activism and service. To achieve this goal, each PM will receive an iPad 4 (32 GB) that will be used in part to: 1) digitally capture the group work process and community service experiences of the SW 1010 PM group 2) increase pre-SW students’ awareness of how mobile technology (iPad) can be used professionally to e/affect individual and broad-based community change efforts 3) create a visual presentation (using iPad Keynote or other compatible system) designed to educate/build community awareness of the assigned issue/problem/challenge 4) increase student/community awareness of how the social work profession can/is integrating mobile and Internet technology in direct practice The PM will be embedded within their groups and will be expected to actively participate in the experience. PMs will also be responsible for maintaining/securing the iPad when not in use for the group project. Examples of Digital Activism & Community Engagement Projects include the following: Project 1: Working with Aging Populations A SW 1010 student group will be assigned to a Detroit-area apartment complex for aging individuals. Students with the assistance of their PM will develop a digital video pictorial project capturing the lives of interested residents in and around the housing facility. Residents will also be asked to engage in short informational interviews (story-telling) based on their lives. This Project is designed to give seniors a voice and a sense of value, while teaching Pre-SW students engagement and providing direct exposure to an oftentimes overlooked, disenfranchised population. At the end of this project a video link of the end product will be presented to residents/housing staff.  Given the close proximity of  residential apartment complex to our college campus, participating residents/staff will be invited to attend the final SW 1010 course to witness the group presentation and briefly share thoughts with the entire class, if interested. Project 2: Positive Social Media Campaign According to the Oxford English Dictionary, Clicktivism is the use of social media and other online methods to promote a cause. During fall 2012 and winter 2013 semesters, SW 1010 students attempted developing a positive media campaign by sharing inspirational, positive news stories with Detroit area media outlets through group letter writing, emailing, and placing calls to news departments. Regrettably, students’ efforts were largely ignored. While this campaign has been a great exercise in teaching students effective group work skills and community activism, students might also benefit from learning how to post and share positive news through social media, blogging and other active outlets using iPad and related Apps. The Positive Social Media Campaign group will be tasked with identifying and sharing positive news stories about Detroit and our university via Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using the assigned PM's iPad. As the SW 1010 course instructor, I will closely monitor all posts to ensure appropriateness. Using iPad, the Positive Social Media campaign is designed to teach students responsible use of technology and social media, how to engage in positive community action, and exposure to a variety of online tools to enhance their practice as social workers in training. Project 3: Adopt our Women’s Athletics Program – Women’s collegiate athletics at our university and other institutions have traditionally received fewer spectators/supporters at events than their male counterparts. To address the challenge associated with supporting and encouraging women in athletics on our campus, a SW 1010 PM group will adopt one-two women’s sports teams and will support them through game attendance and active engagement. This group will video-tape game segments and conduct interviews with interested athletes and coaches using the iPad. This group will chronicle and share their experiences with the athletes through the development of a video presentation highlighting the season. The end video product will be presented during the final SW 1010 class and will also be shared with the campus community during our Annual CyberSummit held in March each year. Athletes, coaches, Athletic Directors and the general campus community will be invited to attend the Summit.  This Project is designed to engage SW 1010 students in campus & student life, encourage broad support of an underrepresented population (women in collegiate athletics), and facilitate active use of technology (iPad) in community activism/awareness building. Project 4: Cyberbully Prevention & Responsible Use of Social Media - SW 1010 students assigned to this group project will develop a Cyberbully Prevention and responsible use of social media campaign on our campus designed to encourage responsible use of technology among college students. This PM group, using the iPad will: 1) conduct research and identify community resources to assist college students, faculty and staff experiencing Cyberbullying (this information will be shared with the Dean of Students Office and will be shared electronically on social media sites, such as Twitter, Facebook, and others); 2) create a Public Service Announcement video using iPad related to the group project involving all group members to be posted on YouTube from the iPad; and 3) work closely with the SSW CyberMentors to help plan/market the Annual CyberSummit (usually held in March). Through the above experiences students will learn how to be effective users/consumers of social media and mobile technologies, and enhance their public speaking and verbal communication skills as they will be engaging multiple populations on and around the campus providing information about responsible use of social media and cyberbully prevention using the iPad device. Project 5: Create a Weebly Website focused on the use of technology in Social Work practice.   This group will be responsible for creating a SW 1010 Weebly website and later managing the site using iPad. The Weebly will contain research on U.S. and world-wide efforts related to the use of Internet and mobile technologies in direct social work practice, such as using Facetime to provide remote counseling, use of virtual treatment techniques, such as Second Life, SnowWorld and others. Through the above experiences students will increase their levels of comfort using iPad technology in group work, will learn about a new area of social work practice called “Cyber Social Work” (delivering support services via the Internet), and will learn how to build a website and later manage the website using iPad. SW 1010 Digital Activism & Community Engagement Project – Peer Mentors Previously, our SSW provided PMs with SW related course textbooks in exchange for their service, up-to a maximum of $500 per semester (per PM). The SSW will now purchase an iPad for each PM in addition to electronic (e) textbooks for each PM that may be accessed on their iPad. Purchasing e-textbooks will allow the SSW to obtain additional textbooks and other course related materials they may not otherwise have been able to afford given the textbook cap of $500 per semester, per PM. While e-textbooks are less expensive, some PMs may prefer paper textbooks. If interested, PMs can purchase on their own those traditional physical texts they wish to retain in their libraries as e-textbooks are usually only accessible 6-8 months (depending on the publisher). Providing PMs regular use of an iPad will: 1) increase their access to electronic data and resources for their own education as students 2) improve communication with their individual students/PM groups and SW 1010 course instructor using email, text messaging, and other tools 3) improve their awareness, knowledge, and direct use of iPad technology in social work practice

Smell Roses, Not Technology

I am writing this month's post while enjoying a much needed two week "vacation". I placed vacation in quotes, because for many of us while we may be physically away from our work offices, we have several personal projects we find ourselves working feverishly to complete while away. Vacations are intended to mark a time for renewal and rejuvenation, an opportunity to set aside employer related obligations and tasks in order to allow our brains and bodies time to rest and rebuild. I had been looking forward to taking time away from the office to engage in introspection and relaxation. As a social worker I recognize the importance of self-care, but realize I don't always do this well.

I now find myself quickly approaching the end of my first two weeks of summer vacation (will be taking an additional two weeks off in late June-early July) and am feeling more relaxed and clear. While I filled my "vacation" with a multitude of personal projects, including writing two grant proposals and creating a new website for my small business, I think I'll spend my last few days sitting in a movie theater eating nachos with hot peppers. I'll also try to sleep a little later (until 8:00am) and maybe even cook a real meal for my husband that doesn't require a box or takeout.

While I spent much of my first two week vacation using my computer and other forms of technology, I have  allowed myself some time to rest and relax. As you prepare to take your summer vacation, please do take time away from technology and social media to smell the roses and appreciate the goodness life has to offer.

Top 30 Blogs for Social Workers 2012

 

In this month's blog I would like to issue a special thank you to Best Social Work Programs (bestsocialworkprograms.com) for their acknowledgement of social workers that take time each day, week, and month to share their professional training and thoughts through  Blogging. 

Cyber Social Worker was acknowledged in the News, Resources, and Editorial Blogs section. Please take time and visit http://www.bestsocialworkprograms.com/top-30-blogs-for-social-workers-2012/ to learn more about the work of other social workers that Blog on a variety of interesting and unique topics. The Bloggers range in experience from seasoned professionals to students enrolled in social work degree programs. I have personally enjoyed reading many of these Blogs for several years, while others I have only recently learned about.

For your convenience, I have cut and pasted directly from the Best Social Work Programs' website others in the category in which Cyber Social Worker appears. The live links will allow you to go directly to the Blogs of those honored. Happy reading, and do leave a comment on our Blogs, we would love to interact with you and expand our network of social workers across the world.

News, Resources, and Editorial Blogs

1.National Association of Social Workers Blog is the blog of one of the primary advocacy organizations for those in the social work profession. The blog posts are written by highly regarded practitioners and academics in the social work field.
Highlight: The School Social Work Toolkit

2. The New Social Worker is the companion blog of the magazine that shares its name. The blog focuses on updating the readers of the magazine with news, information, and articles in between the issues.
Highlight: How to Bring Conversations to a Screeching Halt

3. The Social Work Blog is a collaborative effort featuring articles from some of the top practitioners and thinkers in British social work. Though British, this blog contains content that can be applied internationally.
Highlight: Should Civil Servants be Required to Spend Five Days With a Social Worker?

4. Everyone Needs Therapy is a multidisciplinary blog that focuses on posting in depth articles that have to do with some of the most prevalent mental health issues of the day. The blog is editorial in style and not meant as a replacement for therapy, but to help people understand that they are not alone.
Highlight: Marissa Mayer and Employee Morale

5. Social Work World features editorial style posts that consider the implications of current events from a social worker’s perspective. The blog is designed to be appealing to social workers at all levels, from students to retirees.
Highlight: Mental Health and Gun Control: Anything New?

6. Christina’s Considerations features articles focused on the major issues facing hospital social workers, including issues of workplace effectiveness, enhancing the patient experience, and keeping up with the innovations in health information technology.
Highlight: Changes to HIPAA Impacting Healthcare Covered Entities and Business Associates

7. Theravive is the editorial style blog about life and living, written by multiple M.A, M.S.W, and Phd contributors, who are primarily marriage therapists but deal with a broad range of issues such as parenting, anxiety, depression, conflict, boundaries and more, most of which will be very helpful to social workers on several levels.
Highlight: Saying “I’m Sorry” Can Be a Powerful Parenting Tool

8. Social Work Tech Blog features the writings of social worker Ignacio Pacheco and is a great resource for anyone interested in integrating technology into their jobs as social workers and other related fields. Most of the resources he shares are free or low cost.
Highlight: DSM-5: Five Things to Hope For

9. Cyber Social Worker deals with the challenges of new technology and personal use of social media facing social workers. The blog also covers innovations, and strategies for keeping your private life private on the internet.
Highlight: Is Online Privacy an Oxymoron?

The Internet and Social Media Can Impact Mental Health, Really!

I would like to personally thank Jack Dorsey (Twitter founder) and Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook founder), as well as the academic researchers in the early 1950s credited with bringing the Internet to the masses. The Internet and Social Media have reduced communication barriers, enhanced work/personal productivity, and ushered in new advances in medical treatments, and other ground breaking improvements.

As a practicing social worker in higher education and small business owner, it is important for me to uphold the standards of the profession, while adhering to the Code of Ethics. The profession directs us to practice in areas in which we have been trained; however, I find there are very few venues that provide hands-on training opportunities for social workers interested in delivering mental health services in an online or technology based environment.

I recently learned (by conducting my own research on the Internet) of Virtual Reality Treatment (VRT) models used with those suffering chronic pain not fully controlled through medication. VRT is rooted in technology and was developed as a treatment approach by University of Washington (U of W) researchers. U of W researchers created a VRT game called SnowWorld (just Google SnowWorld to learn more) used primarily with patients experiencing severe burns. SnowWorld VRT helps distract individuals engaging in painful burn rehabilitation/treatment from experiencing their pain through the use of sensory flooding (visual, auditory, and kinestetic) via an innovative video game. The research and findings related to VRT is simply amazing.

This is one example of how technology can be used in medical treatment, but VRT has also been found to be efficacious in mental health treatment as well.  Still another tool rooted in technology (Internet) that has been found to be effective in the treatment of motor challenges, depression, and others is "Second Life". Second Life allows users to engage in support services through the use of avatars. There are quite a few universities in the U.S. and abroad that have conducted research in the use of Second Life as a treatment model, including Case Western Reserve University, Drexel, and others.

I would like to encourage my fellow social workers to consider exploring the use of innovative treatment models rooted in the Internet and Social Media that have been researched and deemed effective in the treatment of mental and physical health challenges.

Social Work Virtual Internships: Great Way to Learn

In this blog I often focus on personal and professional reinvention and following your dreams. Recently, through my work with my virtual intern I learned about a new website dedicated to placing individuals in virtual/cyber internships. I learned that individuals interested in exploring a myriad of new careers can serve as interns in the virtual world. While I have been supervising a virtual intern in my School of Social Work since November 2012, I never quite realized just how popular virtual internships are, and that some of these positions in the human services field are paid.

Virtual/Cyber internships can be a wonderful way to gain new experience in an untethered environment, and can be especially attractive to potential interns and employers as there are no restrictions geographically based on location.

I would like to strongly encourage any licensed (and insured) human service professional who is in need of staffing support to consider hiring a social work student as a virtual intern. Virtual interns can be secured by approaching accredited schools of social work and asking if they would be willing to place a student under your supervision. You will likely need a MSW degree, licensure in your state, and professional liability insurance. It should be noted very few schools of social work have  embraced the idea of virtual internships, but I believe the time is very near. As the social work field continues to grow, we must be willing to expand the way we view social work training and the delivery of services. Social Work virtual internships are a great way to learn.

Is Online Privacy an Oxymoron?

Given my love of most things involving technology and my personal experiences with cyber-bullying, I recognize the need to regularly monitor my presence both personally and professionally in cyberspace. While I Google myself several times each month to maintain an awareness of content involving my name and accounts, each time I conduct a search I become more and more amazed with the level of personal information now easily accessible by anyone with the time or interest in gathering data.

I, like millions of others pay my bills, purchase concert/sporting event tickets, and engage in a myriad of other activities online. I am very careful to protect my identity/accounts, but recently I have begun to think where our world may be headed in regard to our use of technology and open access to information. I enjoy being able to secure information on almost any subject in a matters of seconds. While I have come to enjoy this free open access, I have not given much thought to the price we may be paying for it in terms of personal cyber-security and personal safety. Last year I loaded a free App on my iPhone that allows the user to conduct free background checks. When I loaded the App I didn't give it much thought, because I was only interested in using the App as a tool to monitor information about myself and my husband (he too is interested in reducing his cyber risk).

The information I was able to gather from this App about myself was impressive (as it was incredibly accurate) and unsettling at the same time. The free "Background Check" App not only provided an amazing amount of information about me, but it also provided detailed personal information about each of my siblings (and their spouses), and my husband and his immediate family, even though I only entered my name and state of residence in the App's information fields.

The digital age is thriving and here to stay. It will continue to advance by leaps and bounds, but as users we must begin to push for standards of use, specifically related to online personal privacy. Within society there are expectations and standards for appropriate behavior; the Internet should not be treated any differently and should also follow standards. I can't accept the rationale that the Internet and technology tools are advancing too quickly for policymakers to keep up and develop legislation to govern and guide our behaviors. While the Internet is quickly evolving there are new companies born by the minute with the ability to access and share data previously inaccessible; this evolution is occurring in part based on financial rewards and the public's desire for instant access to information.

I am hopeful that as we continue to enjoy the Internet and its many benefits and opportunities for personal growth and development that we will also begin to seriously establish legislation that is fluid enough to adapt to the changing world of the Internet. I am also hopeful that we will continue to develop and offer effective tools to help individuals maintain personal privacy in the digital age. I would be disappointed to think in this incredible age of technology that Online Privacy is an Oxymoron.

SW Intrapreneurship or SW Entrepreneurship: You Decide

Many individuals have dreams and aspirations of one day owning their own business and this is no different for professional social workers. Social Workers are skilled in the science of collaboration, resource allocation, and problem solving. Effective critical thinking is the cornerstone of our education and fear is typically not in our lexicon. Social Workers understand the influence of social and economic issues and the impact on human functioning. We are often economically conservative (frugal) and skilled practitioners in the art of stretching limited funds for the greater good. These are tremendous attributes to have as social entrepreneurs.

Even though economic challenges continue to persist on a local, national and international level, this uncertainty presents a multitude of opportunities for Social Workers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Social Work profession is expected to increase by 25% by 2020. While Social Work is one of the fastest growing careers, Social Workers have not been exempt from layoffs, downsizing, mergers, and organizational closers. Economically challenging times, such as those we currently live in while unpredictable and a bit scary at times, are fertile grounds of opportunity for Social Workers.

Social Workers are well suited for roles in social entrepreneurship given our group work skills (networking), innate creativity, understanding of ecological and economic systems, and genuine desire to e/affect change. If you are a Social Worker interested in becoming a social entrepreneur, and you are currently employed, I would first strongly encourage you to spend some time honing your skills as an Intrapreneur. An Intrapreneur is an individual who is currently employed by someone else (this person does not yet own their own business), but in their current position has a great deal of freedom and decision making power to a/effect social change. The Intrapreneur is able to bring creative/innovative ideas/services to their current place of employment, and these ideas may even produce additional income. An Intrapreneur applies many of the same skills and acumen a sole business owner would, except the Intrapreneur is not the owner of the business.

For example, as a Social Worker within a college setting I have been afforded a great deal of freedom to create products, services, and activities I believe will enhance student life. The products and services I tend to create focus on enhancing students' quality of life on campus, but at the same time have the potential to make money (intrapreneurship). One of the products I developed and test marketed on campus was a motivational line of greeting cards for college students. Some of the money I generated from  greeting card sales was donated to one of the student organizations I worked with, which is social intrapreneurship. I even successful negotiated with our college bookstore to carry my line of greetings cards. Regrettably, before I could get my cards on the shelves of the bookstore its parent company terminated contracts with its greeting card vendors. While this relationships was not to be, it confirmed the idea of social intrapreneurship is a viable one that is easily transferable. 

If you are interested in entrepreneurship, my advice is to use your time wisely. If you are currently employed by someone else use this time to test market your ideas and risk tolerance. Do not compete with the services/products your employer offers, but instead seek opportunities to hone your skills and test market your ideas under the umbrella of social intrapreneurship.
  
You might be surprised, social intrapreneurship may not only enhance the social functioning of others, it might also lead you to a lifelong opportunity you hadn't considered. Social Work Intrapreneurship or Social Work Entrepreneurship, the decision is ultimately yours. This is the beauty of social work!

Using iPads/iPods to Provide College Mentorship

Recently, I wrote a funding proposal to purchase iPads and iPods for the purpose of delivering intrusive peer mentoring support to a special population of college students. I titled this project the "Mobile2Mobile Learning Community" as it is my hope Peer Mentors (PM), who are academically successful BSW and/or MSW students with an interest in technology will engage their Mentees using mobile technology.

I recruited confident, self assured, respectfully aggressive PMs that are comfortable being "persistent" and sometimes intrusive in their approach to mentoring. The PMs will each be assigned a caseload of 4-5 Mentees they will work with October 2012 through August 2013. The PMs will be responsible for monitoring their Mentee's progress at the university and will be given an iPad in exchange for their service in lieu of a cash stipend. Each Mentee will be given an iPod Touch to help them engage their PMs and administrative program staff.

PMs are expected to engage their Mentees once per week using FaceTime in addition to texting and "IMing" their Mentees to ensure they are progressing socially and emotionally at the college. The PMs record notes of their meetings with their Mentees using the iPad "Notes" function. These general session notes are then forwarded directly from the iPad to the M2M LC administrator's email for record keeping and follow-up as needed. Given potential confidentiality concerns, only general information is transmitted electronically.

While iPads/iPods will be used heavily to facilitate communication between PMs and their Mentees, the mobile technology will also aid participants academically as these devices have internet access, the ability to load college e-textbooks, conduct research, check email, and much, much more. I am hopeful using iPads/iPods to provide college mentorship will prove to be an effective tool and will also enhance college student retention, while delivering key support services to potentially at risk student populations.

Fear is a Good Catalyst for Change, Right?

Recently, I have had many opportunities to talk with friends and professional colleagues about the need for personal change. Many of these conversations have revolved around discussions about personal relationships, professional jobs, and the need for personal reinvention. I wondered if many of these conversations were based on the fact that fall is quickly approaching which tends to signal change, or if the conversations were age based as many in my circle are quickly approaching 50.

Some in my circle have grappled with whether to remain in relationships that have become dysfunctional and toxic, while others have become consumed by their jobs, almost never taking time to enjoy life and its beauty. Several of my closest friends are seriously considering downsizing their lives and living more minimalistically. Initially, I wondered exactly what they meant as they appeared to have life by the horns. I was told the desire to lead a more simplistic lifestyle was due in part to the need to downsize the importance they have allowed their jobs to have in their lives. Many in my circle are senior social work administrators, organizational program directors, and some even own their own businesses and are quite successful financially. Even with great success, fear can often prevent us from changing our lives in ways that truly bring us happiness and self-fulfillment. Our jobs do not define us, instead, they help us to do the things we want to do and often times need to do.

In order to achieve true self-fulfillment, I have learned we must be willing to release the fear that keeps us from moving forward. Do I personally feel fear on occasion? Yes. Are there areas in my personal and work life I would like to change? Absolutely. As I approach my next major age milestone in the next few years, I am sure I too will begin to explore and take inventory of my life. In some ways, I already have.

As we approach fall, I promise myself to make a conscious effort not to continue living my life in a way that does not fully celebrate me, my loving family, and my incredibly supportive friends. I will make a stronger effort to take more moments to enjoy the little things in life (like having an ice-cream cone without thinking about the calories). I will take more time to walk, not run because everything is not an emergency. I will try my hardest to leave work at work and not allow it to consume me with endless emails and phone calls (sometimes initiated by me) during my time off. And finally, I will try to look for ways to downsize my life, so that I too will know what is truly important.

Fear is a necessary part of life and can help us lead a much more satisfying life if we embrace it and move past it. Fear can be a good catalyst for change. Right!

Socialworktechblog.com and Socialworkhelper.com - Terrific Websites for Social Workers

I have been following a terrific website on Twitter called SocialWorkTechBlog and on the web at Socialworktechblog.com. This site covers a cornucopia of social work and tech-based resources, I highly, highly recommend following it!

This morning I had an opportunity to review a website called, Socialworkhelper.com and must say I was thoroughly impressed with the mission of the site, its depth of content, and commitment to encouraging responsible use of technology within the Social Work profession. As a "Cyber Social Worker" with 25 years of non-traditional Social Work experience in higher education settings, I am pleased to see a  recent graduate internalize social work principles and values through the use of technology in such a useful and innovative way.

Thank you socialworktechblog and Socialworkhelper for expanding the way social workers think about the delivery of social wok services in the 21st century. You have compiled such useful content in an easily accessible format. I intend to share your sites with professional colleagues and the students I work with in higher education.

Technology Envy is Not Cool!

I never thought I would suffer Technology Envy until I purchased the first iteration of the Galaxy Tab December 2011. I'm not one to chase technology, because I understand technology will always be a moving target. But I must admit, I do get very excited when I see new gadgets on the market. What has always been important to me (where technology is involved) is purchasing devices that meet my needs, not fads. I purchased the Galaxy Tab a year ago because of its unique size (7 inches or so) and because it fit so nicely in my purse and was fairly light weight. I engaged in a great deal of online research prior to purchasing the Galaxy Tab, and was very pleased with it for the first six months. The Galaxy Tab is a terrific device; however, as an iPhone lover I was frequently frustrated with my inability to use apps from my iPhone on the Android device. I also found I was more impressed with Apple Apps than those in the Android Market.

I appreciate and fully understand propriety, but I grew tired of purchasing separate Android and Apple apps, using cloud based calendars, and other patches because my Apple product (iPhone) and Android (Galaxy Tab) couldn't/wouldn't play nicely together. As a result, I recently purchased the iPad 2. I really like (too early to say I love it) the iPad2, and am pleased to be able to use some of my favorite apps on both the iPad/iPhone. I am happy to have a uniform calendar, and a variety of other newly discovered features. While I still find the iPad somewhat bulky/cumbersome, I look forward to using it as much, if not more than my iPhone4.

I will not be selling my $600, less than one full year old Galaxy Tab. Instead, I will be re-gifting it to my husband (because he doesn't know any better and doesn't care) this Holiday in the hopes he will enjoy it (even though he too is an iPhone user). Technology Envy is not a good trait to have, it can be damaging to one's technology self esteem and pocketbook. I am not proud to say I suffered Technology Envy at the hands of my Galaxy Tab, but tomorrow is a new day.

My One Year Blogging Anniversary

This week marks my one-year anniversary as a Blogger. My first posting
was on Social Work and Technology the week of October 21, 2010. I
began this blog because of my love of writing, technology and social work. I have learned a great deal about myself  this past year through blogging. I learned just how important it is to finish something you start, even when there is no one looking over your shoulder to make sure you do it, and do it well.

Blogging taught me the importance of non-verbal communication with others, even when you don't know if what you are writing is having an impact. Blogging taught me the importance of organization, commitment, and sacrifice. It taught me the importance of establishing annual goals and more importantly the objectives to help me reach them. Writing this blog taught me just how quickly one year in time passes and the importance of doing what you enjoy, while being respectful of others. It taught me the importance of community, taking time for family, engagement with others, and just how big the world really is. Blogging taught me one person can make a difference, no matter how big or small. I am grateful for having had an opportunity to share my thoughts, feelings, dreams and ideas with others who have "happened" across my blog this year.

Thank you for sharing my one year blogging anniversary with me; I wish you well and much success in the next.

- Cyber Social Worker

Got Google? I Do!

Recently, I have found myself acting as an Evangelist for everything Google. Google, a major player in Internet services in several ways has saved my business. Most of us are aware of Google as a search engine; however, I only recently learned within the last year that Google is so much more. Google owns YouTube and a variety of other services. I have owned/operated my own business (an organization offering Social Workers professional employment placement assistance and counseling support) for approximately 6 years.

Recently, due to the poor economy the office building in which I rented space and hired staff to answer my business phone calls closed. As you might imagine, I engaged in a great deal of research and attempted to find a replacement for the staff and office space I lost. I was faced with having to decide if I would remain a bricks and mortar business or move my business online. Google helped make my decision less expensive and less stressful. I learned that Google offered a series of products, one called Google Voice. Google Voice allowed me to select a new (FREE) telephone number unique to my business. Armed with my new phone number I moved my business entirely online, I revised my (FREE) website which is actually a Blogger account also owned by Google.

As a result of Google's services, my business has had very little interruption in service. I recently posted a "Tweet" and asked followers to provide me a  invitation to join Google + while it was still in test phase. Armed with Google + I plan to use the Hangout function in my work with clients, fellow coworkers, and in my research. I have already been using Google Docs for over a year, and it has proven to be a tremendous resource in helping me maintain organization.

I also use Google Alert to track online comments about me and my business, so whenever a comment is posted about me/my business online, I receive an email alert from Google detailing the comments. Google has really been a life preserver for my business, as many of their services are FREE! I would encourage anyone and everyone whether a business person or a layperson to Get Google, I did!

Is Local Television News Too Negative?

I once looked forward to turning on my local morning news station; it helped me get ready for the day. I learned what I should wear based on the weather report and enjoyed the friendly smiles of the newscasters. I enjoyed hearing stories about my local community, and trusted the individuals bringing me the news. While there was the occasional not so positive story, generally the news was positive and informative. Today, we have 24/7, 365 day news-cycles featuring entertainment and chaos without pause. Our local news must compete for our attention. Consequently, fewer and fewer local news stations share the myriad of stories featuring positive activities and events in the local community, instead many share news of local, regional, nationally and international pain and destruction believing this is what keeps us tuned in. My local news and cable news are becoming one.

I believe it is as easy to research and share interesting and informative news stories that people will want to hear as it is to share negative content. At the risk of sounding as if my head has been stuck in the sand for the last 46 years, I can turn on my television and hear negative news anywhere in the world. It is my hope that local news stations will rise above the muck and mire; resisting the temptation to follow the pack.  I am asking local news to take a chance and be informative and educational as it once was. When I turn on my local news I would love to hear stories of  people in my community making a difference in the neighborhood, how local businesses are giving back to the community, how children are excelling in light of the many obstacles in our world today. I'd like to hear stories about how our local sports and athletics teams are engaged in the community, making a difference in the lives of youth everyday.

I would love to hear stories about men just like my husband who are mentoring boys year-after-year, taking them to ball games and amusement parks (for free). I would love to hear stories like by best friend and her husband who own three charter schools in the community where children are learning and respect each other. I would love to hear stories about places (like where I work) that encourage employees to be actively engaged in the community in a number of community service projects. There is a great deal of positive news to be covered, let's help local news stations across the United States by sharing positive news and asking that they cover these stories for balance. If you know of a positive story, or a person in your community making a difference, however large or small, share it!

Is local television news too negative, yes, but together we all can help change this. Please help share positive and informative news is all our responsibility!