Using Technology, Self-Reflection, Group Discussion, and Critical Thinking to Enhance Empathy

Purpose: The purpose of this exploratory, qualitative study was to understand how technology, self-reflection, group discussion, and critical thinking could be utilized to enhance empathy in undergraduate social work students.

Methods: Data was collected from 10 undergraduate social work students enrolled in a required introductory social work course. Students utilized their smartphone camera to create a 30-second video to be shared with the class. This video was to be of the individual’s chosen personal space (e.g. a bedroom, kitchen, living room, or personal workspace). Each student then submitted a journal in which they responded to a series of prompts related to the experience, including how they prepared for the space and how they felt recording the video. Immediately following the presentation of each video to the class, students again wrote about the experience. After all videos were presented, students participated in a group discussion about their reflection journals and their thoughts while watching their classmates’ videos.

Results: Students reported feeling ‘weird’, ‘vulnerable’, and/or exposed watching others view their personal space. One student identified viewing the videos as a group and the class discussion that followed as meaningful and thought provoking. The discussion prompted critical thinking with one student reflecting, “People are more than their spaces”. Further explaining a messy, cluttered space may not be an accurate reflection of them. Students learned new perspectives through conversation with their classmates. Points made throughout group discussion showed an increased appreciation for the importance of going into someone’s personal space with respect and without judgment. Both through prepping their spaces prior to filming them, as well as viewing them in a group setting, students were reminded of their biases, assumptions, and values. For example, students reported removing certain items (i.e. alcohol bottles, dirty laundry, etc.) prior to recording.

Conclusions and Implications: The use of technology, group discussion, and critical thinking enhanced empathy in a select group of undergraduate social work students. Technology, coupled with group discussion, self-reflection and critical thinking can enhance essential skills utilized in helping professions.