Aims and benefits of a structured approach to personal tutoring in

professional healthcare programmes

Mike McIvorLecturerDepartment of Inter-professional Health StudiesSchool of Health Science

Aim

To offer insights into the process of

supporting cultural change in personal

tutoring in a research led university

Structure

•Contextual background

• Structure of personal tutoring

• Supporting cultural change

Structure for personal tutoring

Role expectations outlined

Structured approach with defined contact and

opportunities for ad hoc contact

Non-vocational vs vocational courses

Learning and professional development agenda

(LEAP)

Continuing professional development

Students can usually expect

The same personal tutor for the duration of their courseA registered healthcare professional as their personal tutorConsideration of academic, clinical and personal development as appropriateReasonable access to personal tutor if there is a specific problemTo be referred to sources of support where appropriate

Resources available

Student support services

Access to support services from Carmarthen Campus

Role of student officer

Contact with Programme Manager

Access to School academic services -

placements, assessment issues, enrolment etc.

Tutorial agenda

Use of self assessment and action plans – (LEAP & All Wales FFP Nursing & Midwifery clinical documentation)Preparation for /collation of documentation following clinical placementsUse of portfolio to consider personal and professional developmentSmall group reflection with other personal students of tutor in same cohort.

Evolving as a personal tutor

Knowledge of course structure

Knowledge of assessment requirements

- theory

- clinical practice

Balancing administration requirements with teaching,

research and clinical requirements of the role

Support for personal tutors

Signposting to relevant student support information

Cohort or branch meetings to update on course

developments

Attending staff / student committees to become

apprised of current issues

Finding a mentor / source of sage counsel

Student experiences of personal tutoring

Summary

• Structured personal tutor support in place• Often fulfils personal and academic tutor roles• Challenges and opportunities for both student and

tutor• Reviews and monitors professional body course

requirements and can thus identify issues during the process rather than towards the end

• Hopefully prepares student for requirement for continuing professional development after registration