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Category: News

Leveraging AI and Virtual Reality for Social Work Training

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The University of Utah’s Virtual Skills & Workforce Trainer (VSWT), developed by Chad McDonald and Matt Davis, uses artificial intelligence and virtual reality to transform social work and behavioral health training. The platform features an interactive AI chatbot that simulates clients and caregivers, providing learners with unlimited practice opportunities and personalized expert feedback on motivational […]

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November 26, 2025

Cumberland County Collaboration with VSWT Shows Initial Positive Impact

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Cumberland County is becoming a statewide leader in social work training through its use of the University of Utah’s Virtual Social Work Trainer, a simulation-based program that equips workers for real-world welfare checks. The innovative approach has attracted interest from other North Carolina counties and earned Cumberland County two major awards. Early results show improved […]

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September 15, 2025

New CW360° Article Explores Technology’s Growing Role in Child Welfare Training

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Our recent article in CW360° examines how emerging technologies like virtual reality are transforming professional development in child welfare, offering practitioners safe environments to practice critical skills before applying them in the field. The piece highlights both the promise and ethical considerations of technology-enhanced training, emphasizing the need for evidence-based approaches that prioritize client outcomes.

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April 2, 2025

Modernizing the Workforce: How Cumberland County DSS uses VSWT to Attract and Retain Social Workers

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A recent CityView NC feature details how Cumberland County DSS uses the University of Utah’s Virtual Skills and Workforce Trainer to modernize training and boost retention. By implementing the Virtual Home Simulation skills module, the agency allows staff to practice critical assessment skills to competence in a safe, data-driven environment. County modernize social work to […]

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February 18, 2025

Cumberland County DSS has partnered with the University of Utah to use VSWT

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The Cumberland County DSS has partnered with the University of Utah to use the Virtual Social Work Training software. This VR tool helps new social workers practice safety and risk assessment, family engagement, and critical thinking in a simulated environment. The goal is to improve training effectiveness and staff retention. DSS Partners with University of […]

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February 7, 2025

The virtual reality of ‘Ready Player One’ is coming, and the University of Utah is where some of it is being created

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The University of Utah’s EAE program is advancing VR technology for diverse applications, including medical training and therapy. Their innovative projects, like the Virtual Home Simulator and therapeutic VR apps, are shaping the future of immersive experiences. The program continues to push VR boundaries, enhancing education and therapy. The virtual reality of ‘Ready Player One’ […]

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March 29, 2018

A virtual reality simulation for social work students that recreates a home environment so they can better prepare to check for potential hazards

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The University of Utah’s GApp Lab is developing “Virtual Home Sim,” a VR simulation for social work students to practice home visits and identify potential hazards. This innovative tool, showcased at EAE Play, aims to enhance social work education by providing realistic, immersive training experiences. The lab continues to push the boundaries of VR technology […]

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December 21, 2017