Program Overview
This professional development course empowers healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively utilize existing and emerging healthcare technologies. Participants gain a comprehensive understanding of diverse technologies, including telehealth, mobile apps, and artificial intelligence, and learn to critically analyze their research basis and address barriers to adoption. The course prepares individuals for careers involving the introduction and use of technology in healthcare settings, such as leading implementation, providing training, and conducting research.
Program Outline
Engaging Technology
Degree Overview:
Objective:
This professional development course aims to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to utilize existing and emerging healthcare technology effectively. The course emphasizes the practical application of technology in patient care and empowers individuals to introduce technology successfully to their patients and colleagues.
Description:
Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of diverse healthcare technologies, including telehealth, telecare, mobile apps, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence. They will learn to critically analyze the research behind new technologies, enabling evidence-based decision-making for implementation. The course addresses barriers to technology adoption, providing strategies for overcoming them and maximizing patient engagement.
Learning outcomes:
- Explain the functionality of various healthcare technologies and their appropriate application.
- Identify the theoretical and research basis for new healthcare technologies.
- Recognize and address barriers to technology adoption.
- Articulate the benefits of healthcare technology for patients, particularly in self-managing chronic conditions.
- Implement new technology effectively for both patients and colleagues.
Outline:
Course duration:
9 weeks (unconfirmed)
Structure:
25-30 hours of lectures and self-directed study
Content:
- Introduction to various healthcare technologies:
- Telehealth
- Telecare
- Telemedicine
- Mobile apps
- Telerehab
- Social robotics
- Artificial intelligence
- Virtual reality
- Applying appropriate technologies for individuals with long-term conditions and social care needs.
- Critical analysis of technology introduction, including theory and evidence-based implementation strategies.
- Understanding the benefits and challenges of healthcare technology for patients and professionals.
- Exploring service user and carer experiences with healthcare technology.
- Future perspectives on healthcare technology advancements.
Assessment:
One 2,500-word essay (pass mark 50%) evaluating the introduction of a specific technology in a chosen setting. The essay should include a theoretical framework, evidence-based support for the chosen technology, and a critical analysis of its implementation.
Teaching:
Methods:
Lectures, self-directed study, hands-on experience with technology, and use of wearable technology to gain patient perspective.
Faculty:
Dr. Shashi Hirani, a health psychologist specializing in healthcare technology, leads the course. He is supported by experts in emerging technologies and behavior change.
Unique approaches:
Access to CityTECs, a technology suite equipped by leading companies like Tunstall and Philips, provides exposure to cutting-edge healthcare technologies.
Careers:
This course prepares healthcare professionals for careers involving the introduction and use of technology in healthcare settings. Potential opportunities include:
- Leading the implementation of new healthcare technologies
- Providing training and support to colleagues on using new technologies
- Conducting research on the effectiveness and impact of healthcare technologies
- Engaging in policy development and advocacy related to healthcare technology
Other:
This short course module contributes 15 credits towards postgraduate taught degrees in health-related fields. Participants can choose to complete additional modules to earn a Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, or Master of Science in Health Policy.
Entry Requirements:
UK and EU Students:
- You do not need any specific qualifications for this course.
- However, you should be working in health and social care in a role where you are using or introducing new technology.
Non-EU Overseas Students:
- You can only apply as part of a full degree program, not as a stand-alone course.
- You must meet the following requirements:
- Current professional registration with a relevant professional/statutory body or equivalent
- At least one year's relevant clinical experience as a health or social care practitioner
- A satisfactory academic reference and a satisfactory clinical reference
Language Proficiency Requirements:
If your first language is not English:
- You need to meet one of the following requirements:
- A first degree from a UK university
- A first degree from an overseas institution recognized by City, University of London as providing adequate evidence of proficiency in the English language (e.g., institutions from Australia, Canada, or the United States of America).
- International English Language Test Service (IELTS) score of 7.0 with no subtest below 7.0
- Pearson Test of English (Academic) score of 72
- TOEFL 100 overall with 24 in Writing, 20 in Listening, 19 Reading, and 20 Speaking
- Other evidence of proficiency in the English language that satisfies the board of studies concerned, including registration with your professional regulator.
Additional Notes:
- The above information applies to the 2023-2024 academic year. Please refer to the official website for the most up-to-date requirements.
