PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE OF SOCIAL WORKERS DEVELOPMENT IN MODERN UKRAINE: FORMATION OF DIGITAL COMPETENCES AND THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Abstract

The article is devoted to examining the peculiarities of developing digital competences within the system of professional competence of social workers in contemporary Ukraine. The purpose of the study is to analyze the development of professional competence of social workers in modern Ukraine through the formation of digital competences and the acquisition of advanced digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. The research methodology incorporates a set of general scientific and specialized methods (in particular, the analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the use of artificial intelligence in the activities of social work professionals). The scientific novelty of the study lies in substantiating the idea that digital competence serves as an overarching component built upon other structural elements of the professional competence of a social worker. In other words, the development of competences necessary for professional activity, professional communication competence, and personal competence cannot be fully realized in today’s information and networked society without the acquisition of digital competence. Conclusions. The development of competences essential for performing the professional duties of a social worker presupposes the acquisition of skills in using modern electronic devices and relevant software. The development of professional communication competence of social work specialists in the contemporary world is also directly connected with established digital competences. In particular, such specialists can interact with clients remotely by means of platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet. Digital competence also plays a supportive and instrumental role in the processes of developing the personal competence of social workers, enabling them to conduct effective searches for information, including digitized sources, which provide the basis for reflection on both life and professional experience. At present, there are possibilities for applying artificial intelligence-based programs in the activities of social work specialists. Artificial intelligence can become a powerful tool for social work professionals in reducing bureaucracy, optimizing working time, and improving the quality of social services provision. However, AI also carries risks: according to recent studies by the London School of Economics, most AI models engaged in analyzing client cases for the assignment of medical and social services demonstrated gender bias, inadequately assessing (underestimating or, in some cases, removing) the needs of women, which could result in denying them access to essential services.