LHP Skillnet, in partnership with the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (RCSI), has launched a research report that explores the best ways to create a more engaging and effective learning experience for the long-term care workforce. The report looks at how to combine the benefits of both online and face-to-face teaching to improve continuing professional development. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, teaching within the network was entirely face-to-face. However, this model had to be drastically altered in 2020, with teaching now being entirely online. The research report sought to examine the long-term care workforce’s thoughts and experiences of learning through these different models and how best to combine them to create a more effective learning experience.

The report identifies four key recommendations, including active support from managers and coaching and mentoring to facilitate knowledge transfer in the workplace, investing in teacher training, incorporating learner feedback in the course design process, and evaluating engagement strategies for improvement.

LHP Skillnet is already implementing these recommendations by offering
coaching and mentoring courses at QQI Level 6 for any grade of staff that has an interest in coaching others and a professional Diploma for those who wish to progress or at management level.

We are redesigning the Healthcare Support QQI Level 5 Major Award to
incorporate blended learning options. By involving learners in the course design process and incorporating action-based learning, LHP Skillnet hopes to provide engaging and effective learning experiences.

The research report provides valuable insights into the attitudes and experiences of the long-term care workforce towards different teaching modalities. By implementing the recommendations outlined in the report, LHP Skillnet hopes to continue to provide high-quality learning experiences for their students.

To read the full report and find out more about how LHP Skillnet is improving the learning experience for the long-term care workforce, click on the link below:

Teaching and Learning Modalities for continued professional development, Attitudes and Experiences of Long-term care workforce.