A Framework for Technology Enhanced Learning

This document provides a framework for commissioners and providers of health and social care focusing on the use of technology as part of a managed learning process. Innovative educational technologies, such as e-learning, simulation and smart-phones, provide unprecedented opportunities for health and social care students, trainees and staff to acquire, develop and maintain the essential knowledge, skills, values and behaviours needed for safe and effective patient care. As part of managed learning processes, which blend these technologies with other learning methods, students, trainees and staff can progress from novice to expert. This framework describes what steps should be taken to extract maximum value from e-learning, simulation and other technologies to support learning across the health and social care sector. It is structured around six principles: (a) be patient-centred and service-driven; (b) be educationally coherent; (c) be innovative and evidence-based; (d) deliver high quality educational outcomes; (e) deliver value for money; (f) ensure equity of access and quality of provision. The benefits of collaboration and cooperation to achieve economies of scale, capacity and expertise are highlighted.