Securing intersubjectivity through interprofessional workplace learning experiences

Abstract

Effective interprofessional work is premised on high levels of intersubjectivity (i.e. shared understandings) among those who are co-working, particularly when quick or seemingly spontaneous responses are required for urgent or immediate action. For these kinds of performance, they require what might be termed 'shared intuition'. The concern is how best to assist the development of these bases for effective interprofessional working, particular in circumstances when co-working is temporary, goals to be achieved are ambiguous and processes indeterminate. It is proposed here is that much of the required levels of intersubjectivity arise ordinarily through development processes that are a part of everyday healthcare co-working. However, to promote this development and achieve the kinds and levels of intersubjectivity required for non-routine interprofessional work may require particular curriculum and pedagogic interventions. Those practices are about organisation and sequencing of experiences to provide a foundation of shared understanding of concepts, procedures and values. Yet, to assist the articulation, sharing, appraising and elaborating disciplinary and personal-professional positions, value and procedures specific interventions may be required albeit embedded in co-working practices.