Live virtual placements: a new approach to practice based learning

The role of the paramedic is diversifying and universities need to respond by developing curriculums that support paramedic graduates to meet future workforce needs. Placements are key to our students developing the necessary competencies to become qualified paramedics and the pressure is on universities to offer a wide range of placements to reflect professional diversification. In addition, HPCP’s new standards of proficiency acknowledge that paramedics of the future are likely to consult patients in the virtual world. As universities strive to meet this demand, they are often faced with capacity issues. Rising student numbers, staff retention issues and competition for placements from other healthcare students can make it extremely challenging to secure placements, especially in desirable areas such as primary care. One evening, Richard saw an article about a live stream of a surgical operation. This led me to wonder if live virtual placements for student paramedics might provide the answer to many of the issues surrounding placement availability. Following a series of live virtual placement experiences, it can be concluded that live virtual placements are an alternative to physical placement opportunities for learners, enhancing and diversifying their experiences.