Innovation
In collaboration with the Scottish Government, NES, Glasgow Caledonian University and NHS Boards across Scotland the LD Team have developed a National Delivery Model, which allows students to study with GCU or ENU, and have their practice learning opportunities (placements) in their own areas. Theory is delivered mostly online using a blended approach to learning and promoting flexibility of learning. The use of innovative learning technologies is used to enhance this experience e.g. Elluminate Live, quizzes and discussion forums.
The team also work in partnership with other HEI’s, FE colleges, NHS boards across Scotland, NES and the Third Sector, in order to recruit and retain students locally.
The team pride themselves on their values and attitudes towards people with learning disabilities and afford their students the same person centred support.
What prompted innovation?
This initiative was in response to the demographic changes in the learning disabled population (increasing), and the aging current workforce (decreasing). The Scottish Government and NHS Boards identified a future shortfall in LD nurse provision, particularly in remote and rural areas, which are about to reach crisis point. This has led to a year by year increase in student numbers and need to grow placements in priority areas such as Grampian and Tayside.
What makes innovation different?
Our students undertake practice placements in their own geographical areas and have the flexibility to study at a time and place that meets their needs. Our learning environment fosters student involvement in all aspects of learning including the design, delivery and evaluation of the programme through our Development Group. Opportunities are actively sought for students to contribute to national policy development such Strengthening the Commitment (Scottish Government, 2013) and participation in a National Steering Group to develop a Pre- and Post-Registration Framework for learning disability nurse education.
They have also had the opportunity to meet with the Scottish Government to share their experiences and views of what an ideal LD programme should look like, and to express their views on the National approach model. Following these, an online discussion forum for all LD students was established to discuss, debate and influence future practice in relation to LD Nursing.
Changes in practice
Stakeholder Involvement:
• widening representation of users, carers and practitioners (NHS and non-NHS) in Local Advisory Groups across Scotland, which has led to a broadening of experiences for students
• created further networking opportunities and sharing of best practice in local and remote areas
• collaborations with other HEIs has increased practice learning opportunities for students from other fields of practice in their areas
• the team are committed to raising awareness of the health needs of people with learning disabilities with students from other fields of practice in local HEIs and FE colleges
• stakeholders are involved in:
– interviewing and selection of students
– teaching face to face and online
– evaluation of students in practice
– programme evaluation, review and development
Clinical Academic Posts
1 whole time equivalent (2 individuals) has been appointed to support the development and implementation of the national model. Their remit includes:
– developing practice learning opportunities across all sectors
– bridging the theory/practice gap
– delivering face to face lectures/tutorials/reflection
– supporting students in practice/PDR
– collaborative working with local practitioners, service managers, practice education facilitators, HEIs and students
Impact
This outstanding provision has been recognised in 2012 by the Unistat results which gave a score of 96% for the LD programme, the highest rated Learning Disability programme in the UK. Winner of the Scottish Learning Disabilities Nursing Network (SLDNN) Education/Student Nurse Award 2013. Finalists in the Student Nursing Times award for pre-registration programme of the year 2013.
Dissemination
• Awards and achievements publicised throughout the Faculty by newsletter/email
• Publications from students and lecturers regarding the Model and Stakeholder involvement