Theoretical pathways to the future: Globalization, ICT and social work theory and practice

Abstract

• Summary: Society has changed substantially and rapidly with the advent of globalization where technology is both a catalyst for and a response to globalization. Concurrently and connected to these trends has been the advent of neo-liberalism, new managerialism and postmodernism. Globalization, technological change and neo-liberalism underpin and are driven by each other in a continual cycle. This rapidly changing, globally connected and technologically based society is the context for clients and social workers alike. This article explores the connections between globalization, ICT and neo-liberalism. This forms the basis for critical reflection on theories, models and modes of practice in light of the changing context allowing a proactive response to the challenges that face the profession and our clients. • Findings: Irrespective of the agency of employment, social workers are faced with challenges that arise out of an ideology of outsourcing, reductionism, speed of response, accountability and cost effectiveness with a decreased value on practice wisdom and holistic approaches. However, many of our theories and models were developed at a time when social structure, political ideology and economic underpinnings were different. As such workers are left being reactive to situations with limited opportunities to influence the core issues. This has contributed to the decreasing role and value of social workers. • Application: To remain relevant social work needs to continue to influence systems for the benefit of society while reviewing and updating theories and models to reflect current lifestyles, modes and patterns of communication and the impact of globalization.

The New Informational Paradigm: Developing Practice-Led Approaches to the Use of Mobile ICT in Social Work

“…There is strong evidence that many social workers are struggling with the implications of technology on their practice (Baker et al, 2014;Parton, 2006;West & Heath, 2011). In light of these concerns, the question arises as to how the profession might process these changes and adapt to the advantages of the new technological tools of the information age, while still holding true to the basic human foundations of social work practice.…”

“…These include its alignment with managerialism (Burton & van den Broek, 2009;Gillingham, 2014Gillingham, , 2015Hill & Shaw, 2011;Watling & Rogers, 2012;West & Heath, 2011); the associated issues of lack of craft and narrative richness (Hill & Shaw, 2011;Parton, 2006;Sapey, 1997;Watling & Rogers, 2012) and the perception of ICT as a management, rather than a social work tool (Burton & van den Broek, 2009;Hill & Shaw, 2011;Parrott & Madoc-Jones, 2008).…”

Castells, Power and Social Work

“…Although this was a highly controversial innovation in children's social work, and one which has been contested and resisted, it is also representative of wider 'technologising' trends (Garrett, 2005;West and Heath, 2011). Its development and influence are indicative of a way of thinking which has achieved a degree of dominance in the organisation and delivery of services:…”

Governmental Rationales for Installing Electronic Information Systems: A Quest for Responsive Social Work

“…; White et al . ), the Netherlands (Keymolen and Broeders ) and Australia (West and Heath ), where social work is subjected to many reforms in which these tools are gaining importance.…”