2. Immersive learning and reflection

As learners develop, knowing how to engage with the multi-disciplinary team becomes more important. At this stage, practising in a safe environment will also be important.

Learner outcomes:

  • Engagement with a range of exemplars/case studies 
  • Ability to communicate effectively with different audiences and in varying formats
  • Learners are able to use reflection effectively
  • Increased awareness of collaboration
  • Understanding of the dynamics of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary interactions.
/COO/media/Media/Images/SPOKE/Immersive-learning-and-reflection-435x235.jpg

Session ideas:

Learning together

Interprofessional Education (IPE) workshops: organise joint sessions with medical, nursing or pharmacy students to work on case studies together or undertake a team project.

Benefit: encourages appreciation for other roles in patient care as well as working on collaboration skills.

 

Reflecting on dynamics

Reflective practice: ask learners to analyse case studies, identifying strengths and weaknesses in team dynamics and patient outcomes.

Benefit: teaches the benefits of reflective practice and allows learners to critically assess team dynamics and improve collaborative skills.

 

Best practice in action

Sharing best practice: provide case studies and testimonials that reflect diverse settings (e.g. independent practices, large chains, rural vs urban areas).

Benefit: helps learners to visualise the application of MDTs to a variety of contexts.

 

 

Real-life decisions

Case-based learning: present learners with real or simulated patient cases requiring collaboration with other healthcare professionals. 

Benefit: enhances decision-making and interprofessional communication skills.   

At this stage:

Consider including sessions that:

  • Include individual 1:1 supervision and peer feedback 
  • Use task observation exercises to teach group dynamics, role awareness and leadership
  • Develop interactive patient journey simulations to help students understand the dynamics of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary interactions
  • Incorporate case-based learning about MDTs
  • Teach the importance of being flexible,  resilient and adaptable
  • Encourage learners to collate a range of examples of effective MDT working, applicable to a variety of settings
  • Teach learners about the value of diverse perspectives and share techniques on how to build trust within teams, (this could include problem-solving exercises and roleplay scenarios).