This research examines the impact of learning, teaching and assessing in a wide range of contexts and areas of professional health care practice. It seeks to determine how individuals can acquire sufficient capability to function competently, as a professional, or as a lay person with sufficient levels of safety and understanding to self care.
We are interested in methodological issues that help to illuminate decision making processes, to build theory, that of themselves may serve as an educative opportunity. Reflecting on the acquisition of competence and professional decisions during the research process has been shown to enable practitioners to make sense of their learning and the theoretical values that underpin their service. The research aims to make a difference to patients and their relatives and the professionals who care for them.
In the last year researchers have published twelve articles in this programme area. There are a further four papers in press with expected publication online in the next three months. Books that have been published in the last year include Care of the acutely ill adult published by Wiley (2010) and Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Nursing (Exeter: Learning Matters).
