Evaluating interprofessional learning modules: health students' attitudes to interprofessional practice

J Interprof Care. 2013 Sep;27(5):424-5. doi: 10.3109/13561820.2013.784730. Epub 2013 May 14.

Abstract

Interprofessional learning opportunities are thought to assist health students to work in a more collaborative, patient focussed manner during their career. In line with this thinking, the University of Newcastle's Department of Rural Health delivers monthly interprofessional learning modules (ILMs) to students on a range of health topics. Students' attitudes towards interprofessional learning were assessed pre- and post-ILM, using the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning scale (RIPLS). Thirty-eight students completed both pre- and post-surveys with a return rate of 36%. Our results demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in students' attitudes to interprofessional learning in three of four domains. Based on the findings from this study, ILMs appear to be a worthwhile educational opportunity and may improve student attitudes to interprofessional learning in the short term.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Cooperative Behavior*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Interdisciplinary Studies*
  • Interprofessional Relations*
  • New South Wales
  • Rural Health Services
  • Students, Health Occupations / psychology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires