Graduate School of Social Work
Walter F. LaMendola
Professor
PhD, University of Minnesota
ACADEMIC AND RESEARCH INTERESTS
- social theory, particularly pragmatism and critical realism
- information and communication technology impact, and use in social work
PROFESSIONAL BIOGRAPHY
Professor Walter LaMendola's scholarly interests focus on communication and information technology impact, and use their in social work.
A pioneer in this field, he has authored four books, many articles and numerous technical reports on this subject over the past 30 years.
LaMendola’s most recent publications deal with e-therapy design issues, the impact of social computing on social work and the development of computer-mediated communities of social work practice. He is presently conducting research in three areas:
- design and implementation of electronic services for substance abuse treatment and mental health services
- implementation of a community of inquiry approach in social work education
- access and use of electronic networks by social work practitioners as a tool to learn, exchange and foster progressive practice principles
LaMendola teaches social theory in the doctoral program.