Towards interdisciplinary practice: A shared community-based practice experience
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Date
2007
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Western Cape
Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Service-learning is an educational approach that allows for a structured learning experience for students,
combining community service with preparation and reflection. Through service learning, students not only
provide community service but also learn about the context in which the service is provided.
METHODS:
Shared Community-Based Practice (SCBP) is a pioneering service-learning initiative of the University of the
Western Cape (UWC) for all health and welfare disciplines located within a community setting. It is unique in
the sense that it affords students from discipline-specific domains, an opportunity to practice interdisciplinary
in a structured and coordinated manner. SCBP was designed to meet discipline-specific, multidisciplinary
and personal goals through the development and implementation of an intervention care plan. Four centres
in Nyanga and Mitchelll's Plain were targeted for placement of students in the Community and Health
Sciences Faculty at UWC. Focus group discussions were held with the centres personnel and the needs of
the centres were identified. Interventions were designed based on these needs.
RESULTS:
The main themes identified included the need for training, awareness and lack of resources. Implementation
of the projects had its challenges but students were able to overcome them.
CONCLUSION:
Shared community based practice is an initiative that can be used effectively in communities in an
interdisciplinary manner.
Description
Keywords
Shared community based practice, Service learning, Students, Interdisciplinary
Citation
Filies, G. C. et al. (2007). Towards interdisciplinary practice: a shared community-based practice experience. Journal of Community and Health Sciences, 2(2): 53-59