Learning Circles: augmenting the placement experience

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Murray, Zoe
Sebar, Bernadette
Roiko, Anne
Rogers, Gary D
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2019
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Canberra, Australia

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Introduction/background: A challenge for convenors of placement experiences in higher education health programs is that the learning environment in which placements occur is relatively out of their control and the real-life pressures of the work is by necessity the priority. Practicum convenors need strategies that engage students in learning, support student transition from traditional learning to reflective experiential learning and help build resilience. Learning circles are emerging as a learning strategy for use by practicum convenors. Aim/objectives: The aim of the presentation is to overview the introduction of on-campus learning circles to augment learning occurring on public health and environmental health practicums. Discussion: The practicum convenor facilitated fortnightly learning circles over a 12-week trimester. Students were required to submit learnings from at least three. Content analysis revealed the dominant theme regarding perceived learning was that of good practices, followed by dealing with emotions and tensions and working on self-confidence. When asked about the value of learning circles students indicated that they appreciated the opportunities to share experiences, to hear and learn from others’ experiences, and to practice having a ‘voice’. The learning circle process used was connected to feelings of accomplishment from being able to contribute, reduced stress from knowing others were having the same issues and learning strategies to deal with them; and gaining deeper insights from questions raised, reflection, and feedback. Issues/questions for exploration or ideas for discussion: Learning circles are a strategy that can be used to augment practicum learning.

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Proceedings of the Australian & New Zealand Association for Health Professional Educators 2019 Conference

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Education

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Murray, Z; Sebar, B; Roiko, A; Rogers, GD, Learning Circles: augmenting the placement experience, Proceedings of the Australian & New Zealand Association for Health Professional Educators 2019 Conference, 2019, pp. 221-222