Conference Proceedings - School of Nursing & Midwifery - Trinity ...

School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin: 8 th Annual Interdisciplinary Research Conference
Transforming Healthcare Through Research, Education & Technology: 7 th – 9 th November 2007
Conference Proceedings
the Internet, meaning that any number of people can access and
use them simultaneously (as opposed to other instructional media,
such as a PowerPoint presentation or video tape, which can only
exist in one place at a time).
Moreover, those who incorporate learning objects can collaborate on
and benefit immediately from new versions. The production of the
RLO must ensure mergence of new learning theories with cutting
edge communication technologies (Wiley, 2000).
To facilitate the widespread adoption of the learning objects
approach, the Learning Technology Standards Committee (LTSC) of
the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) formed in
1996 to develop and promote instructional technology standards
(LTSC, 2000). Without these standards, universities, and other
organisations around the world would have no way of assuring the
interoperability of these instructional technologies, specifically their
learning objects.
A recent secondment to CIPeL has allowed the authors space for
creating an interactive media-rich resource with a range of reusable
learning objects for professionals undertaking a suite of modules in
the physical newborn examination. It has also resulted in a deeper
and broader understanding of what the terms IPeL and RLO mean
and how they can be effectively used.
SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS
After reviewing a range of sources defining Inter-Professional
Learning (IPL) it is acknowledged that inter-professional education
is about professionals recognising that their focal point is the
recipient of care. It acknowledges how professionals can learn
together through collaboration. The review has yielded a wide range
of definitions for RLO; and in summary that reusable learning
objects are the most effective way of creating interactive activities
and content, or e-learning. A VLE is an arena where resources and
RLO’s can be accessed and used to facilitate the process of elearning.
CONCLUSION
IPL is achieved through a well designed and supported learning
object that is digital. Once a LO has been designed and created the
reusability of such within different contexts results in it becoming a
RLO.
Creation of effective RLO’s to enhance learning and meet
Government initiatives for inter professional care provision is a
challenge to the educationalist in terms of developing a teaching
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