The Use of Open Learning in the Training of Neurotechnologists:a regional case study

Abstract

The provision of adequate specialist training for neurotechnologists working in the NHS has been difficult due to the small numbers in training at any one time. Some improvement in the standardisation and quality of training within the West Midlands Region, which was cost effective, was sought for the regional supernumerary training scheme. Enquiries were made about courses in other countries to ascertain whether or not there were any other neurophysiology open learning courses. A distance learning course was found in the Netherlands and also Australia. A visit to the Netherlands was arranged and contact was made with an Australian trainee and course tutor, to obtain more information. Following a review of training techniques, it was decided to try a student-centred open learning approach, using interactive written materials. These had to be developed as there were none available in neurophysiology. A pilot study was set up so that the materials could be tried and tested. A longitudinal case study was designed, during which the regional trainees tried out the new open learning style of materials. Using primarily questionnaires and interview schedules, detailed information was collected over twenty one months from fifteen trainees and their supervisors. The schemes running in the Netherlands and Australia were found to be distance learning courses using specifically written but traditional materials and with a teacher-centred approach. It was therefore of interest to compare the similarities and differences between these distance learning courses, with the pilot study of a student-centred open learning approach using specifically written interactive materials. The courses in the Netherlands and Australia seemed to offer better training than existed prior to these courses but both had their shortcomings. The regional pilot study provided some positive findings, which indicated that open learning could be of use in the training programme, and which warranted further investigation. Providing materials were designed with care, the use of open learning looked promising.