Stephanson Cooke Interprofessional Learning Event.
Agnes Cooke's generous contributions to the Faculty of Health, Community and Education had prompted the first Stephanson Cooke Inter-professional Learning Event in 2013. Her unwavering commitment to inter-professional education has touched the lives of countless students and helped to shape inter-professional practice.
In 2024, the 11th Annual Stephanson Cooke Inter-professional Learning Event had taken the form of a simulation. The purpose of the simulation was for learners to experience inter-professional team collaboration across disciplines within the Faculty of Health Community and Education.
During the Simulation Inter-professional Education event, learners would be able to: apply professional practice standards to maintain mutual respect and shared values, apply their own and other professions knowledge to appropriately address the need of a client, apply core communication skills while providing direct client care in a team approach, discuss service delivery to a family facing an emergency
Interprofessional education (IPE) is an approach that brings together students from diverse healthcare disciplines to learn collaboratively. Its goal is to improve patient care by fostering effective communication, teamwork, and mutual understanding among future healthcare professionals. Through shared learning experiences, IPE aims to break down silos, develop collaborative skills, and instill a patient-centered approach, preparing students for interdisciplinary teamwork in their future careers.
Key aspects of inter-professional education include:
Collaborative Learning: Students learn with, from, and about each other, developing an understanding of each profession's roles, responsibilities, and expertise.
Effective Communication: Emphasis is placed on developing communication skills that are essential for effective teamwork and patient care.
Teamwork Skills: Students practice working in interdisciplinary teams, simulating real-world scenarios, and developing the skills needed to collaborate seamlessly in their future professional roles.
Respect for Diversity: IPE encourages an appreciation for the diversity of professions, recognizing and respecting the unique contributions each profession brings to the team.
Patient-Centered Care: The ultimate goal is to improve patient outcomes by fostering a collaborative and patient-centered approach to practice delivery.
Simulations are immersive and realistic recreations of real-world scenarios designed for training and learning purposes. These simulations mimic authentic experiences to allow individuals to practice and refine their skills in a controlled environment.
By replicating complex situations, simulations provide a safe space for learners to make decisions, apply knowledge, and develop hands-on expertise without the risks associated with real-life scenarios. Simulations are crucial for skill acquisition, enhancing critical thinking, and improving teamwork. They bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing individuals to handle challenges competently and confidently when they arise in their respective professions.
Child studies, social work, and child and youth care - Child Studies students bring a developmental perspective, considering the unique needs of children in crisis situations. Social Work students contribute expertise in assessing and addressing psychosocial aspects, ensuring the emotional well-being of individuals and families affected by the disaster. Child and Youth Care students focus on the overall welfare of children and youth, utilizing therapeutic interventions and support strategies.
Athletic therapist, Nursing, Midwifery, Physical Literacy - Nursing students contribute clinical expertise, addressing immediate medical needs and coordinating patient care. Athletic therapy students focus on injury assessment and management, ensuring the physical well-being of individuals affected by the disaster. Midwifery students, with their specialized knowledge, attend to the needs of expectant mothers and newborns.
Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership - Students can implement their expertise in risk management and knowledge of natural resources. The Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership student may also play a role in assessing environmental impacts and promoting sustainable practices within the disaster response efforts.
Sport and Recreation Management - Their role involves coordinating recreational activities for individuals affected by the disaster, providing a crucial outlet for physical and mental well-being during challenging times.
Education - education student aids in scenario planning, ensuring educational objectives are met.
(A.Chen, M. De La O Villegas, S. Begum, personal communication, January 30, 2024)