The Hitchhiker's Guide to Faculty Development

School of Health and Social Care

A semi-regular conversation among academics and professional staff at a UK-based higher education institution, who are trying to figure out better ways to get better.

  1. 20. MAI

    21 - Student perspectives on using VR in a Diagnostic Radiography programme

    Episode highlights A student from a diagnostic radiography programme shares her experience using Virtual Medical Coaching as part of her studiesWe explore how VR simulation creates a safe environment for experimenting with radiography equipmentRebecca highlights the technical support that facilitated successful VR integrationDiscuss her decision to purchase her own VR headset for additional practiceThe value of making mistakes in a controlled virtual environment 5 key takeaways Clinical preparation: VR provides critical familiarity with radiography equipment before clinical placements, reducing anxiety and improving workflowSafe experimentation: Students can manipulate settings and see the results of incorrect techniques—opportunities that would be unethical in real practiceVisualisation of concepts: VR allows students to see inside virtual patients and understand positioning concepts difficult to grasp from textbooks aloneProgress tracking: The system logs practice sessions, enabling students to review work and see improvement over timeCollaborative learning: Working in pairs with one student in VR and another on a laptop mimics the teamwork encountered in clinical practice 3 practical tips for incorporating VR Structured onboarding: Begin with basic VR training games before introducing subject-specific content to help students become comfortable with the technologyTechnical support: Ensure dedicated staff are available during sessions and create a visible signalling system for students to request help while wearing headsetsFlexible access: Create opportunities for students to access VR equipment outside scheduled teaching hours and explore software licensing options that support home use

    23 Min.
  2. 16. MAI

    20 - Using Bodyswaps for interview practice in an MSc Physiotherapy programme

    In this episode I speak to two of our MSc Physiotherapy students, Carly Walker and Alice Hockham, alongside Dean Walker, to discuss their experiences with Bodyswaps — a VR platform for developing non-technical healthcare skills. Highlights Bodyswaps provides immersive experiences focusing on communication, empathy, and professional presentation in both VR and desktop formatsStudents co-created scenarios, including a cardiac rehabilitation simulation based on personal experienceThe platform provided automated, personalised feedback on communication elements like empathy and body languageStudents particularly valued seeing themselves from an external perspective during interactions, offering unique reflective opportunitiesDesktop mode enabled engagement with larger groups (57 students in one session) through collaborative learning Key takeaways VR helps shift focus from clinical knowledge to person-centred, empathetic careStudent involvement in content creation increases engagement and authenticityThe technology supports asynchronous, self-directed learning opportunities Advice for implementation Ensure robust technical support for onboarding and troubleshootingConsider desktop mode as a cost-effective alternative to VR headsetsFocus on integration with existing curriculum rather than complete redesignTrust students to take ownership of their learning with the technologyUse VR to complement traditional teaching rather than replace it

    27 Min.
  3. 18.07.2024

    19 - Skills for life: Rethinking employability in higher education

    In this episode, we explore the crucial topic of employability in higher education, particularly in health and social care programmes. Charley shares her insights on why employability matters and how it can be integrated into the curriculum. We talk about the role of employability in professional programmes, bridging the gap between academic learning and professional skills, preparing students for lifelong career development, building resilience in future health and social care professionals, integrating employability skills into existing curricula, collaboration with central careers and employability teams, and the impact of employability initiatives on graduate outcomes. Charley really emphasises the idea that employability goes beyond preparing students for their first job and is more about equipping them with skills for lifelong career development. In this context, there's a clear distinction between preparing students for professional destinations and developing broader employability skills. Key takeaways: Employability is about developing holistic, lifelong skills, not just securing the first job after graduation. Integrating employability into curricula doesn't have to mean adding content; it's often about recognising and articulating existing skill development. Collaboration with central careers teams can provide valuable resources and support for embedding employability in programs. Employability initiatives can have a positive impact on graduate outcomes and align with institutional strategies. Developing self-awareness, confidence, and resilience is crucial for long-term career success in demanding sectors like health and social care. Employability skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability are highly valued by employers and should be emphasised throughout the curriculum. Encouraging students to recognise their unique attributes and values can help them find better fits in their professional roles and increase job satisfaction.

    18 Min.

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A semi-regular conversation among academics and professional staff at a UK-based higher education institution, who are trying to figure out better ways to get better.