Open - HETI - NSW Government

CLINICAL EDUCATION
& TRAINING INSTITUTE
Work based learning, defined as an
approach that can “enable workplace
transformation to be achieved and
sustained by ensuring that workplace
activity is the driver of learning and
development” (Manley et al 2009; p88)
is a concept that moves away formal
education conducted in a training
room, reliant on one expert to impart
knowledge and valuing research alone,
to also appreciating and valuing the
collective knowledge of individuals and
the dynamic process of practice based
learning.
In line with current global health
education reforms, which calls for
health professionals to meet the
healthcare needs of the population
through transformative learning, there
are increased expectations on health
professionals to participate in lifelong
learning and shared learning, that is to
learn from, with and about each other,
to achieve positive outcomes in patient
care (Frenk et al 2010; WHO 2011).
Opportunities to facilitate shared learning
include networking, collaborative work,
sharing information and resources within
and across disciplines.
Communities of practice (Lave &
Wenger, 1991) in particular can facilitate
learning as a process of engagement
and connection with colleagues and
professions through collectively managing
knowledge, constructing meaning, sharing
practices and interpreting this within work
environments (Imel 2000).
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