Interprofessional education (IPE) is an approach where students can learn from and with others from different disciplines. The aim is to improve collaboration, person-centered care, and health outcomes. Our Interprofessional Research Education and Practice (IPREP) initiative uses the IPEC Core Competencies as a guide to facilitate learning outcomes (see IPEC Core Competencies). The World Health Organization and Institute of Medicine highlight the importance of interprofessional education as a critical step in preparing a collaborative, practice-ready healthcare workforce that is best equipped to respond to health needs.
The mission of the College of Health and Human Services’ Interprofessional Research Education and Practice (IPREP) initiative is to provide learners with exceptional interprofessional educational experiences. IPREP serves as a resource for faculty, staff, and students seeking interprofessional education and research.
Our vision is that each student who graduates from the College of Health and Human Services, regardless of major or area of study, will have the opportunity to participate in interprofessional education, practice, and/or research opportunities and understand the importance of engaging in and advocating for interprofessional collaboration.
Examples of Interprofessional Education Activities that IPREP uses to engage learners are:
Simulated Scenarios
Learners from different disciplines work together in simulated patient care scenarios to practice and refine their collaborative skills.
Case-Based Learning
Interdisciplinary teams analyze and discuss patient cases, focusing on integrated care approaches.
Service Learning Projects
Learners collaborate on community-based projects to address real-world health issues, applying their diverse skills and knowledge.