HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL WORK IN THE FIELD OF EDUCATION: FROM PHILANTHROPY TO PROFESSIONALIZATION

Abstract

Social work in the field of education plays a key role in supporting pupils and students, promoting their psychological well-being, academic success, and social adaptation. The history of social work development in this field is crucial for understanding contemporary approaches and practices that contribute to the effective integration of social work into educational systems. From the origins of philanthropy to modern professionalization, social work has undergone significant changes, adapting to societal needs and improving its methods and approaches. Researching the historical development of social work in education allows for a better understanding of its evolution, achievements, and challenges faced by the profession today. The aim of this study is a comprehensive analysis of the historical development of social work in education, from its philanthropic roots to its current stage of professionalization. The study aims to identify key stages and factors that influenced the transformation of social work in this field and to analyze the contribution of social workers to the development of educational systems. Specific tasks include examining historical sources, analyzing changes in approaches and methods of social work, and assessing the current state and prospects for the profession’s development in the context of education. The scientific novelty of the work lies in a comprehensive approach to studying the history of social work in education, which includes analyzing its philanthropic origins, gradual development of professional standards, and modern trends in professionalization. The research systematically identifies the key stages of social work development in education, reveals the relationship between socio-economic conditions and changes in social work approaches, and considers the impact of international trends on the development of social work in education in Ukraine and other countries. The results of the study confirm that social work in the field of education has undergone a complex journey from philanthropic initiatives to full-fledged professional activity. It has been found that the key factors contributing to the professionalization of social work in this field were socio-economic changes, the development of educational systems, and international experience exchange. Modern social work in education is characterized by a high level of professionalization, a wide range of methods and approaches aimed at supporting pupils and students. The study also emphasizes the importance of further improving professional standards and training social workers for effective performance of their functions in the educational environment.