MTAA awarded 3 Year Industry Integration of E-learning grant - 22 July 2008

Media Release

MTAA has partnered with VHIA (Victorian Hospitals Industrial Association) and webqem (e-learning specialist) to embed e-learning as a delivery method for professional development in the medical technology workforce through a 3 year grant awarded by the Canberra Institute of Technology.

The project will develop e-learning models to address the workforce development priorities of recruiting and retaining staff within the industry. They will be accessed through a learning management system.

"At present there was a comparatively low level of e-learning undertaken across the industry. MTAA is overcoming this situation through a comprehensive professional development program, including the development of e-learning to increase participation in education and training" Said Anne Trimmer, MTAA CEO.

In particular, e-learning will support three training programs: Supporting Interns, Orientation to Management, and Working with Healthcare Professionals. These programs will align with units of competency from the Health Training Package and the Business Services Training Package.

To assist with the adoption of e-learning, participants will initially be supported in their online learning through a mentor or learners' guide. This will lead onto self-paced learning.

Personnel who will participate in the project will represent a broad range of disciplines including biological sciences, biomedical engineering, commerce, information technology, manufacturing, nursing (no patient contact), physical sciences, regulatory and quality and sales and marketing

Ten medium to large companies and twenty small companies have agreed to participate in phase 1 of the project

The outcomes for the medical technology industry will include:

increased take-up rate of professional development across the industry, both on and off the job
increased knowledge, skills and understanding that align with attainment towards a qualification
increased e-learning opportunities that align with national training packages and units of competency
a shift to student-centred learning.

For further information about the project click here.

Media Enquiries: Anna Karelas, MTAA 02 9900 0660 or 0411596187