Reflections and experiences of student paramedics undertaking international work-integrated learning placements

Abstract

International work-integrated learning (WIL) is increasingly common in health-related programs in Australian universities. Paramedicine programs are beginning to explore international WIL in line with the globalization of paramedicine as a profession and the national higher education emphasis on outward bound learning experiences. Using qualitative methods, the present study reports the experiences of undergraduate paramedicine students undertaking inaugural WIL placements in either South Africa or New Zealand. The placements, of a 3-week duration, used a placement model that did not include an accompanying academic from the host institution. Key themes to emerge include appropriateness of WIL location, timing of international WIL within an undergraduate program, and the potential to be overwhelmed by the combination of an intense early clinical experience and demands of managing oneself on an unaccompanied placement experience. This research provides valuable information to assist development of international WIL programs in paramedicine courses and other clinical health disciplines