Exploring e-learning in New Zealand's Regional Health Schools

Abstract

This research is situated in the New Zealand (NZ) Regional Health School (RHS) service, comprising the Northern Health School, Central, and Southern Regional Health Schools. Use of e-learning is explored in this specialized area of the NZ education sector. RHS teachers’ practice of teaching chronically unwell students in a variety of locations is described, and challenges to student and teacher participation in e-learning identified. Challenges relate to four key factors of student illness, student location, managing student learning needs, and the relative isolation of the teacher. It is argued the situation of isolation for both students and teachers defines RHS as a remote community. In exploring RHS teachers’ perceptions of e-learning use with their students, the potential for improved learning, teaching and communication opportunities in RHS is examined. The vital role of participation, and participation with others, is identified for both student and teacher. With reduced access to a traditional school, e-learning provides an opportunity for RHS students to extend their learning outside of their home or residential health setting. Engagement in e-learning on their own, and with others, has the potential to reduce the effects of isolation within the remote setting. Teachers also have the opportunity to extend their learning outside of their sometimes isolated work environments. The affordances of e-learning for RHS teachers include the ability to improve contact and share practice with others. Progressing e-learning within RHS is an aim of this research, mirroring a trend across the education sector. Recounting examples of teachers’ practice and perceptions may assist in motivating others to reflect on the benefits and challenges of their own use of e-learning. Enhanced methods of support and professional development for RHS teachers in e-learning will benefit teachers and students in RHS and other remote settings.