IPLZ

What is the Interprofessional Learning Zone?

  • The interprofessional learning Zone (IPLZ) provides a range of interprofessional learning opportunities for you to participate and engage in during your undergraduate degree.
  • Interprofessional learning prepares you for collaborative practice and occurs when learners from two or more professions learn with, from and about each other to improve collaboration and the quality of care.

How will the Interprofessional Learning Zone help me?

  • As a future health professional you require certain qualities, knowledge and skills that enable you to respond to and navigate the complex relational world of practice. Interprofessional learning is central to preparing you to become health professionals able to work in these environments.
  • Interprofessional learning provides you with opportunities to learn and work alongside students from other health backgrounds, to get to know them and develop qualities such as placing the person and their whānau at the heart of practice, trusting in others, being open, tactful and authentic, and engaging in genuine dialogue. Importantly, you learn to both value and respect the contributions of your own and other health disciplines.
  • Interprofessional learning gives a deeper understanding of team work, an appreciation of reflective practice and a greater sense of being prepared for working interprofessionally.
  • Interprofessional education improves collaboration and understanding of each other's distinct professional roles, and results in better health outcomes for clients. It will transform and broaden your horizon, open your mind to difference and possibilities, and enable you to more effectively utilise your discipline specific knowledge and skills in practice contexts.

What are the specific Interprofessional Qualities/Capabilities that the IPLZ focuses on?

Graduates able to work interprofessionally will:

  • Hold the person/whanau at the centre of their practice
  • Empathically attend to the concerns of others
  • Identify and critique their own prejudices/stereotypes and the possible impact on others
  • Build relationships through mutual respect and trust
  • Engage in genuine dialogue
  • Recognise and reflect on their own and contextual limitations
  • Understand the health perspectives and roles of others
  • Value the perspectives and contributions of others
  • Adapt and respond to unpredictable health contexts and situations
  • Attend to conflict in an open and respectful manner
  • Engage in ongoing learning with, from and about others
  • Integrate professional knowledge and competence in interprofessional contexts