A Conceptual Framework for Contextualizing Information Technology Competencies

This study examines field agency expectations for technology literacy skills in new employees using a conceptual framework that organizes these desired skills of employees by categories including: ability to record data, generate information, produce knowledge, and communicate. Findings indicate that MSW graduates are expected to have the highest level of skills related to information and communication, and employers hold fewer expectations related to data and production of knowledge. These findings are concerning because data is the building block for information, knowledge, and communication skills, and social work education has a large knowledge component. Implications for social work education are suggested.