Expanding nursing informatics knowledge through cirriculum development: a collaborative faculty practice model

In 1992 an informatics faculty practice model was implemented between a major teaching hospital and a Melbourne university. This arrangement was characterised by the provision of a mutually beneficial exchange of experiences and information between the participant clinician and academic. By using such a conjoint faculty practice model it has been found that many informatics problems can be addressed. Over the past three years the model has been evaluated through a longitudinal study. Investigations have included monitoring curriculum change, program evaluation and evaluation of participant professional outcomes. Survey results are presented and the specific elements that have made this model successful are described.