The Digital Scholar: Artificial Intelligence in Social Work Research

While social work remains deeply human-centered, there are questions about how artificial intelligence (AI) can support the advancement of social work research. AI can guide researchers in various spheres, including developing and refining research questions, producing literature reviews and conducting analyses. AI can boost social work research productivity and position the profession as forward-thinking. However, since the buzz around ChatGPT began in 2022 there have been serious apprehensions around its potential misuse and ethical concerns. Through this note, our goal is to review the use of AI in social work research, summarize the types of AI software that can be utilized and conclude with a discussion about the considerations that social work scholars need to keep in mind while utilizing AI.