Designing a Workplace-Based Learning Environment for Learning Health Promotion: A Design-Based Research

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Health Promotion
• Workplace Learning

Background:

• Growing emphasis on health promotion (HP) in healthcare necessitates its integration into physician training.
• Developing effective workplace learning environments for HP is crucial for future healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a clerkship focused on health promotion (HP) using design-based research.
• To outline design principles for shaping workplace learning environments to promote HP learning.

Main Methods:

• Design-based research was employed over three refinement rounds for a nursing-home clerkship.
• Data collection included interviews with students and supervisors, and observations.
• Iterative thematic inquiry was used for data analysis and principle development.

Main Results:

• Clerkship evolved to include an app for capturing practice experiences and collaborative assignments on 'Positive Health'.
• Assessment structures were loosened to support learning.
• Four design principles were established: questioning professional identity, meaningful assignments, peer-learner supervisors, and co-creation.

Conclusions:

• The developed design principles support workplace-based learning for health promotion.
• Co-creation of workplace learning, embracing uncertainty, is vital for students, practitioners, and institutions.