The Value of Continuing to Learn
Vocational teachers in all areas continue to learn, while they teach. We often learn informally from our students, as we teach them new subjects and concepts. We also learn in more formal settings too. Three health care teachers recently attended the World Parkinson’s Congress, to learn about a disease that affects people in our communities and patients in our hospitals. This was the first time this conference was held in North America, what was so unique was that the participants were people with Parkinson’s disease, their families and caregivers, health professionals and scientists. It was such an eye-opening experience. Six health care teachers are also renewing or participating in a training session in PDSB (Moving Patients Safely). Every 2 years teachers must update their knowledge to keep our students up to date in PDSB skills.
Learning through National Dialogue
Several teachers also attended the Canadian Association of Practical Nurse Educators conference in New Brunswick. It was an opportunity to talk to, and listen to, other Practical Nurse teachers from all across Canada, from the Yukon to Newfoundland and everywhere in between. We have lots of new ideas to share in the coming year.
Learning through Global Awareness
The staff who provide program coordination, and several administrators also attended a Conference to learn what other countries in Europe are doing to promote Life Long Learning through training and education. So, just like our students, we believe in learning throughout our lives.
Deborah Templeton