ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND SOCIAL WORKER DECISION-MAKING CONTRIBUTIONS TO SOCIAL WORK EDUCATION

Abstract

In this article we discuss how artificial intelligence (AI), particularly the development of decision-making models based on algorithms, can influence the way social workers make decisions. We argue that the use of these platforms can lead to biased decisions, mistakes and the amplification of inequalities and discriminatory practices, and that therefore it deserves profound reflection as an ethical dimension of Social Work. We support our argument with a theoretical-conceptual analysis of exploratory nature, centred on questioning the ethical issues raised by the use of AI tools by these professionals. Based on our analysis, we believe that there should be a debate on the need to integrate the theme of AI, in a transversal way, into the Ethics and Deontology programmes of Social Work studies, in order to prepare future social workers for the ethical challenges that arise from the introduction of AI platforms into their professional practice.