Distance is not a barrier: the use of videoconferencing to develop a community of practice
The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice
ISSN: 1755-6228
Article publication date: 17 December 2018
Issue publication date: 3 January 2019
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to describe the use of videoconferencing to deliver a post-graduate education programme in forensic mental services by video-conference across three sites in a large urban centre and develop a forensic community of practice.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper describes the setting up of the programme, equipment used, the challenges and evaluation of a teaching programme delivered using technology-enhanced education.
Findings
This forward thinking mechanism of delivery of education has propelled multi-disciplinary and multi-site discussion with the formation of a community of practice.
Research limitations/implications
Additional skills are demanded of clinicians including familiarisation with the equipment and an awareness of the restrictions in communication using videoconferencing.
Practical implications
The use of technology has facilitated delivery of a learning programme within our services. Practical benefits are readily evident with increased accessibility, cost and travel savings.
Social implications
The greatest benefit has been the development of a virtual community allowing peer support, an extended peer review and network development.
Originality/value
The paper describes use of technology to support delivery of a post-graduate forensic mental health training programme.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors wish to acknowledge the support of Dr Jayne Greening, Associate Medical Director, Medical Education, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Simon Fell, Senior IT Support Technician and Mark Thornton, Telecommunications Supervisor, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust.
Citation
Page, R., Hynes, F. and Reed, J. (2019), "Distance is not a barrier: the use of videoconferencing to develop a community of practice", The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, Vol. 14 No. 1, pp. 12-19. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMHTEP-10-2016-0052
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited