Groundbreaking Curriculum
One of the most unique aspects of the STEPS program blueprint is that it introduces a groundbreaking approach to education, characterized by a student-centric, flexible (micro-learning), and work-based experiential learning and assessment model. The STEPS program will be supported by the principles of competency-based education.
With this educational theory at its core, the STEPS program blueprint will be purposefully designed to be effective and fitting with both internal and external contexts, as well as evolving job markets. Thus, it will enhance the likelihood of achieving educational objectives and contributing to the ongoing advancement of effective teaching and learning practices, and most importantly preparing workers ready to contribute to new and exciting jobs.
RESEARCH DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS
A unique aspect of this program is that it will be designed through a rigorous, scholarly design process with continuous input from stakeholders and end users. An iterative design method process will be employed, with a unique focus on pre-implementation considerations. As a first-of-its-kind program, with only 14 similar programs offered globally, all of which are at graduate or professional development level targeting practicing healthcare professionals, the development process emphasizes the importance of a scholarly approach. Specifically, the STEPS program blueprint will be developed based on a hybrid methodological framework combining the Medical Research Council (MRC) and Design-Based Research (DBR) frameworks. This dual framework synergizes rigorous scientific methodology with iterative, user-focused design. In this context, the MRC framework provides a structured approach for developing evidence-based interventions, ensuring clinical relevance and effectiveness. Simultaneously, DBR facilitates ongoing refinement through iterative cycles, involving stakeholders to enhance user experience, program adaptability, and implementation-focused exploration of fit.