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INTERNATIONALISATION AS A BRIDGE TO THE FUTURE FOR INTERPROFESSIONAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT OF HEALTHCARE SPECIALISTS' GLOBAL COMPETENCES: A CASE STUDY IN ESTONIA
Tallinn Health Care College (ESTONIA)
About this paper:
Appears in: ICERI2023 Proceedings
Publication year: 2023
Page: 2368 (abstract only)
ISBN: 978-84-09-55942-8
ISSN: 2340-1095
doi: 10.21125/iceri.2023.0651
Conference name: 16th annual International Conference of Education, Research and Innovation
Dates: 13-15 November, 2023
Location: Seville, Spain
Abstract:
In an era characterized by intricate healthcare challenges necessitating interdisciplinary cooperation, the imperative for healthcare specialists to collaborate effectively across diverse fields has become increasingly evident. This study delves into the comprehensive implementation of an international strategy at Tallinn Health Care College in Estonia, designed to amplify interprofessional education (IPE) and cultivate global competences among healthcare professionals. The college's strategic pursuits encompass institutional positioning, global competence training, international network establishment, curriculum internationalization, management strategies, communication approaches, and the endorsement of student mobility.

Employing a qualitative case study methodology, the research explores the college's international strategy aimed at enhancing IPE and fostering global competences among healthcare professionals. The strategy for data analysis includes two main components: in-depth interviews with key stakeholders and document analysis. In-depth interviews provide insights into the perspectives, experiences, and perceptions of individuals involved in the internationalization efforts. These interviews are conducted with faculty members, administrators, and students to capture a comprehensive view of the initiative's impact. The transcribed interview responses were subjected to thematic analysis, where emerging themes were identified through a process of systematic coding and categorization. Concurrently, document analysis involves the examination of relevant institutional materials, reports, and policy documents related to the internationalization strategy. Direct observations of educational activities further supplement the data collection process. Patterns, themes, and insights are identified through a systematic process of coding and categorization. This analysis illuminates the challenges faced, successes achieved, and outcomes realized through the college's internationalization endeavors. The thematic analysis offers a comprehensive understanding of the impact of the strategy on interprofessional education and the development of global competences among healthcare professionals.

The investigation into the international strategy at Tallinn Health Care College reveals transformative outcomes. Goals to enhance collaboration and global skills have reshaped healthcare education, positioning the college as a leader in addressing contemporary healthcare complexities. Global competence training has produced practitioners adept at cross-disciplinary collaboration and cultural sensitivity. An established international network fosters knowledge exchange and enriches research opportunities. Curriculum internationalization enhances learning through global perspectives. Effective management and student mobility promotion contribute to the college's global reputation, attracting recognition and collaborations. Altogether, this underscores the vital role of internationalization in shaping healthcare education and producing professionals with a global perspective.

In conclusion, the case study from Tallinn Health Care College in Estonia showcases a proactive approach to addressing healthcare complexities through interprofessional education and global competence development. The strategies and outcomes discussed offer valuable insights for institutions seeking to enhance their healthcare education on an international scale.
Keywords:
Internalisation, strategic management, global competences.