Extending inter-professional learning through the use of a multi-disciplinary Wiki

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Health Professions Education
• Digital Learning Environments

Background:

• Inter-professional learning (IPL) is crucial for healthcare students.
• Limited opportunities for sustained interaction exist between nursing and radiography students.
• Technology-enhanced learning can bridge geographical and scheduling gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the use of a Wiki as a tool for IPL among nursing and radiography undergraduates.
• To assess the Wiki's effectiveness in facilitating collaborative knowledge construction and peer learning.
• To explore student experiences with a Wiki-based learning activity.

Main Methods:

• 150 nursing and radiography students participated in a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) activity.
• Students collaborated in mixed-discipline groups using a Wiki for knowledge sharing and resource creation.
• Peer assessment of Wiki content was conducted in week 4.
• Student 'Wiki champions' provided training on Wiki editing skills.

Main Results:

• The Wiki was perceived as an enjoyable and flexible learning experience.
• The platform successfully facilitated collaborative knowledge construction and peer learning.
• Variations in student participation levels and quality were observed and discussed.

Conclusions:

• Wikis are a valuable tool for fostering inter-professional learning in healthcare education.
• The Wiki effectively supported collaborative knowledge building and resource development.
• Establishing clear ground rules is essential for optimizing Wiki-based collaborative learning.