Virtual Reality and Computer Simulation in Social Work Education: A Systematic Review

The use of virtual reality and computer simulation are gaining ground in social work as viable teaching methods. Traditionally recognized as ancillary to classroom learning, they are being incorporated strategically into course curricula. A systematic review was undertaken to answer the questions, How are virtual reality and computer simulation technology being used to train social workers, and are they effective? Seven academic data sets and the Council on Social Work Education and the Society for Social Work and Research conference abstract databases were searched. Based on inclusion criteria, seven full articles were included revealing five themes. The technology is primarily used to teach direct practice rather than macro-level skills and is geared toward the education of students rather than practitioners.