Technology-Driven Innovation in Social Work Education: A UTAUT Perspective

Digital innovation is reshaping higher education, offering new possibilities for enhancing social work education. This study explores the adoption of digital tools within social work programs through the lens of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework. A quantitative survey of 250 social work students reveals that performance expectancy is the primary driver of adoption, demonstrating that digital tools significantly enhance learning outcomes, professional readiness, and skill acquisition. Social influence and facilitating conditions further emphasize the role of collaboration and institutional support, fostering an environment conducive to technology integration. Effort expectancy highlights the importance of intuitive and user-friendly platforms that lower barriers to adoption. By bridging theoretical instruction with practical application, digital innovation nurtures critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for modern social work practice. This research offers valuable insights and recommendations for educators and policymakers to design inclusive, technology-integrated curricula, ensuring students are well-prepared for the evolving landscape of social work. The findings underscore the need for sustained investment in digital infrastructure and professional development to create adaptable, future-ready social work professionals.