Blended learning model incorporating online learning for a competency-focused, work-based learning (WBL) programme – allied healthcare case-study
Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning
ISSN: 2042-3896
Article publication date: 25 January 2022
Issue publication date: 15 July 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigates a blended learning model which incorporates online learning for a competency-focused, work-based learning (WBL) programme within allied healthcare. The case-study is centred on hearing aid audiology.
Design/methodology/approach
The study evaluated the feedback received through a tripartite group of stakeholders (learners, academic staff and employers).
Findings
Results showed that although there was universal support for blended learning, incorporating online learning, each stakeholder contributed different perspectives. The authors identified that in terms of curriculum design, a comprehensive analysis of the holistic perspective across all stakeholders is essential to ascertain the suitability of this learning mode for WBL. The study may provide the basis of a preparatory framework for the development of a generic, competency-focused model that can be applied across allied healthcare WBL programmes.
Originality/value
Although previous studies of WBL have been reported, to the knowledge of the authors, there is no current reference in the literature to studies that examine thematic areas relevant to all three stakeholders across a programme of this nature in hearing aid audiology.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors express their gratitude to the graduates of the HC Sc programme and hearing aid company representatives for their valuable contributions to the study. The following are also acknowledged for their support and advice throughout the programme development: Dr. Joseph Ryan, former Vice President of Academic Affairs and Registrar at AIT (currently: Chief Executive, Technological Higher Education Association (THEA)). Professor Mark Lutman, Emeritus Professor in Audiology, University of Southampton, Derek Lacey, President of the Irish Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists (ISHAA), Brian Mulligan, Centre for Online Learning, IT Sligo and Phil Gomersall, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (formerly Anglia Ruskin University).
The authors also acknowledge Dr. Don Faller, Dean of Faculty of Science and Health, Dr. Pearse Murphy, Emeritus Head of Department of Nursing and Healthcare, Dr. Miriam O'Connor, Dr. Eileen Lane, Olivia Corcoran (all TUS) and Dr. Joanna Lemanska, De Montfort University for their collective inputs.
The authors would like to dedicate this research paper to the late Professor Gerald Armstrong-Bednall, Emeritus Professor of Audiology, De Montfort University, one of the pioneers of WBL in the field of audiology.
Citation
Chandan, K., Kealey, C., Timpson, P. and Murphy, B. (2022), "Blended learning model incorporating online learning for a competency-focused, work-based learning (WBL) programme – allied healthcare case-study", Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, Vol. 12 No. 4, pp. 791-806. https://doi.org/10.1108/HESWBL-03-2021-0058
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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