Exploring Interprofessional Educational Possibilities
This chapter reports a pilot research study investigating the possibility for Interprofessional education in a 3D multi user ‘virtual world’ known as Second life® (SL) (Linden Corporation). Following a brief introduction and context of interprofessional education (IPE) in health and social care, the pilot research project is reported. The goal was to gather insights into IPE and teaching and learning in virtual worlds. An action research approach enabled the author to collaborate with students and other experienced users of SL. Drawing on emerging interprofessional, constructivist and activity theories and insights from the research project, this chapter makes suggestions for utilising immersive worlds for interprofessional teaching and learning. It identifies the need for further research focusing on the vital ingredients necessary for interprofessional learning in virtual worlds, and a requirement to ensure that patient/client/service users remains the focus of the students’ learning, which is the essence of successful interprofessional working.