The 12 1/2 minute learning session: some examples and analysis of impact

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Continuing Professional Development

Background:

• Staff nurses face significant time demands limiting participation in traditional inservice education.
• Need for flexible, accessible learning opportunities in psychiatric nursing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate an innovative 12 1/2 minute learning session format.
• To address the learning needs of psychiatric nursing staff within existing time constraints.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of brief, focused learning sessions (12 1/2 minutes).
• Guiding principles: learning relevance, preparation demonstrating commitment, and shared accountability for learning opportunities.

Main Results:

• Positive outcomes include the 'earthquake effect' (shifting perspectives).
• Facilitation of 'effective debunking' of habitual patterns.
• Induction of 'bushfire effect' (contagious enthusiasm for learning).

Conclusions:

• The 12 1/2 minute learning session is an effective model for overcoming time barriers in staff development.
• This innovative approach promotes significant shifts in perspective and enthusiasm among nursing staff.