Course Overview:

This course introduces students to the emerging role of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies in the delivery of social services. Learners will explore applications such as case management systems, digital documentation, AI-driven data analysis for community needs, translation and accessibility tools, and online client support platforms. The course emphasizes ethical considerations including privacy, confidentiality, equity, and cultural safety. Through lectures, demonstrations, and lab-based practice, students will gain the knowledge and skills to evaluate and use digital tools responsibly, ensuring technology enhances—rather than replaces—human-centered care in social service work.

Prerequisite:

  • The students must have completed grade 12 or equivalent education, or mature student status (19 years or older).
  • Applicants must submit a written statement outlining their motivation, relevant experience, and career goals. An admissions interview may also be required to assess communication skills, professional awareness, and readiness for both academic study and practicum learning.
  • Because the program includes placements with vulnerable populations, applicants must provide a clear Criminal Record Check. Some sites may also require proof of immunizations, first aid certification, or other documentation to ensure safety and readiness for practicum participation.
  • All applicants must meet one of the following Language Proficiency Requirements (LPR):
    • Completion of 2 years of secondary education (including English 10 and 11 with a grade of ‘C’ or higher) from a country where English is one of the principal languages, or
    • Completion of 2 years of full-time post-secondary education at an accredited institution where English is the language of instruction, or
    • To meet BC Health Care Assistant English Competency Standards, students from non-English speaking countries must have completed grade 12 or equivalent education and provide verified results for one of the English Language Proficiency tests with minimum scores listed below:
      • IELTS: overall score of 6.0, with a minimum of 6 in Speaking/Listening, and not below 5.5 in Reading/Writing.
      • CAEL: overall score of 60, with no section below 50.
      • TOEFL iBT: minimum 76 overall, with no sub-scores lower than 20 (Speaking/Listening) and 18 (Reading/Writing), or
      • Another accredited equivalent score.
  • Mature Student Applicants
    Applicants who are 19 years of age or older at the start of the program, are Canadian citizens or permanent residents, and are unable to provide official secondary or post-secondary education records may demonstrate English proficiency by:
    • Submitting a signed attestation confirming they have completed at least three years of full-time education in English in a country where English is one of the primary languages and
    • Completing the Accuplacer English Assessment (Next Generation: Reading, Writing, and WritePlacer) with the following minimum scores:
      • Reading: 235
      • Writing: 235
      • WritePlacer: 4

Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this course, the students will be able to:

  • Explain the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and digital tools in the context of human services.
  • Apply case management and digital reporting tools in simulated practice environments.
  • Identify and critically assess ethical issues related to AI, including data privacy, consent, and algorithmic bias.
  • Demonstrate effective use of digital tools for client communication, language translation, and accessibility support.
  • Evaluate the strengths and limitations of AI-enabled approaches compared to traditional service delivery.
  • Reflect on how digital tools can be integrated while maintaining empathy, cultural safety, and professional judgment.

Course Content & Topics:

Credit Information:

  • Credits: 3

Duration:

  • 14 Weeks: 3 hrs/week

Course & Related Fees:

  • Domestic & International: $700 (Seven hundred dollars)

For a detailed breakdown, please refer to Policy #S-005 Programs & Course Fee Schedule

Non-Refundable Fees:

  • Application Fee: $50.00/course (payable online and non-refundable)