Developing and Delivering online public health education in Tasmania

Title

Developing and Delivering online public health education in Tasmania

Author(s)

A/Prof Kate MacIntyre, Dr Sue Pearson, Ms Linda Murray, Dr Silvana Bettiol, Mr Jeremy O'Reilly

Presentation Goals

• To hear about an approach to developing a new Course which involves collaboration with industry and addresses the needs of a diverse student cohort
• To explore how industry collaboration can ensure relevance of course approach and content.
• To understand how the constructive alignment framework can be used when designing and developing units of study.

Subtheme

Distinctive to Us

Presentation Type

Spotlight on Practice

Keywords

multidisciplinary, public health, industry consultation, professional consultation, online teaching and learning

Room

Social Sciences 209

Time

12.45-13.45

Abstract

Improving the health of the Tasmanian population and reducing growing inequalities in health requires a collaborative, coordinated and multidisciplinary approach which addresses broader determinants of health and focuses on prevention, protection and promotion. These are fundamental principles and practice of public health which necessitate an academic education program to train the workforce in the skills required to improve health at a population level.

A business case was developed which included a market scan of existing courses. These were analysed in terms of curricula, course schedules, content, delivery and cost. A Course Advisory Committee was established. This committee included representatives from the broad health and human service system, government and local councils, non-government organisations as well as the Chair of the Council of Academic Public Health Institutions, Australia. A market survey was carried out as well as a broader consultation exercise with relevant partners. The course learning outcomes and schedule were developed through this process and involved consideration of competency frameworks for public health. An important issue was introducing a unique identity by capitalising on the existing strengths of Tasmania.  This paper will describe the main approaches used in developing and delivering an online Masters programme while navigating the social, economic and political conditions. Cognisance of the unique challenges of distance learning and diverse learning needs requires formalised support and engagement and innovative approaches.  Implementation of constructive alignment has been developed at an individual lecturer and team level. We will share our vision of improving health and understanding of the importance of broader health determinants through this program. We will discuss our collaboration with industry that ensures the program is translational and closely linked to research, policy and practice. The result of this process has been to create an online Public Health Program that pulls together existing expertise and interest.