Empathy Helper: Simulated Learning for Inclusive Social Work Education

Presenter(s)

Ryan R. Lindsay, MSW, LCSW, EdD

Professor of Practice
Brown School, Washington University in St Louis
Ruopeng An, PhD, MPP

Constance and Martin Silver Endowed Professor in Data Science and Prevention
New York University

This workshop demonstrates how Empathy Helper, an AI-driven simulation tool, enhances social work education. Participants will explore interactive, simulated client interactions and discuss strategies for aligning simulated practices reflective of disability justice principles into social work curricula. Outcomes from a 2024-2025 pilot study will also be shared.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:

Explore the use of AI-driven simulation tools like Empathy Helper to enhance inclusive social work practice skills
Develop strategies for incorporating simulated practice into social work curricula to create more inclusive and accessible learning environments
Explore how various frameworks for social work practice, like disability justice principles, can be reflected in simulated practices using A.I. technologies