Continuing Education on Country: a shared learning journey
Background and Aim/s
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of continuing education activities and mentoring, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners working in regional primary health services. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners play a vital role in the health and wellbeing of Indigenous people. However, maintaining their own ongoing education is difficult because there are limited programs specifically suited to their role. This self-determined education and mentoring program was designed by and for these participants to meet specific needs while supporting regulatory requirements.
Methods
An Aboriginal Terms of Reference developed by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advisory group was used to guide all methods used in this study. Focus groups with participants and mentors were the main source of data and participants also completed evaluation surveys for feedback about the education program. The use of a philosophical approach to research methodology when engaging with focus groups was underpinned by cultural and Indigenous pedagogical frameworks.
Results
The practitioner-created curriculum was commenced January 2018 and continues through to June 2018. The translation of learning into practice assisted in health promotion within the community. The delivery of continuing education on country is representative of cultural philosophical ethos. The shared learning journey with the community of mentors provided a platform for practice development. The learning from shared experiences encompassed cultural methodology and two-way learning principles.
Conclusion
A holistic approach to the delivery of continuing education activities using culturally appropriate pedagogies ensures that all participants’ learning preferences are met. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners value education that is self-determined to meet their specific needs. The role of the mentor in enabling the Health Practitioner to meet their aspirational goals is invaluable.