The Use of Virtual Simulations in Social Work Education

Principal Investigators: Dr. Nicholas Lanzieri, Clinical Associate Professor and Dr. Anne C. Dempsey, Clinical Associate Professor, NYU Silver School of Social Work

Collaborators: Shivani Dhir, Dr. Julian Togelius, Dr. Jan Plass, Jeff Brenneman and Henry Samelson

Dates of award: 9/1/2023 – 8/31/2024

Amount of award: $77,000

Schools of Social Work are increasingly using technology-based simulations to train students in practice-related skills, as agency-based practicums become more restrictive, and new research shows the benefits of social work education simulation for students. This newly funded study aims to develop and pilot test a technology-based simulation template for social work students in collaboration with faculty from the Tandon School of Engineering and Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. The template will contain a simulation scenario based on the research findings of Silver scholars, support contemporary practice skill development, and be assessed for effectiveness and feasibility for dissemination in a pilot study with MSW students.

New York University is committed to maintaining an environment that encourages and fosters respect for individual values and appropriate conduct among all persons. In all University spaces—physical and digital—programming, activities, and events are carried out in accordance with applicable law as well as University policy, which includes but is not limited to its Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy.