Field Training for NYC Social Workers

Every year, students from NYU Silver School of Social Work complete an internship in an organization located in and around the Lower East Side. 

Through this experience, NYU’s graduate students embark into a narrated virtual field trip within the very neighborhood where they will be working during their internship.

As they virtually cross a main thoroughfare, board a city bus, pass a public park or wait at a traffic light,  they have the opportunity to proactively engage social work concepts

By prompting students to observe each location in 360° and trigger information hotspots, the students are provided with a new tool to think about the implications of the specific multi-layered and historical environment on their social work.

Practice in the virtual world before heading into the real world! NYU Silver School of Social Work student Nikki Vega checks out the new VR simulation that takes you through New York City's Lower East Side to assess the environment and look for possible challenges for clients.

“It’s convenient but it’s also a safe way to explore the area” Nikki, NYU Student

Professor Nicholas Lanzieri created the virtual training program and says they’re researching the results and planning to expand the demos to other boroughs of NYC.  

“I’m always excited about using different technologies to really tap into learning styles and help students acquire information in different ways.” Nicholas Lanzieri, NYU Silver School Professor