Close to 200 clinical educators gathered last week for this year’s Educator Network Day to learn about leading edge evidenced informed teaching theory and strategies to inspire learning.  The theme of the day was “Inspiring Innovation through Collaboration and Education,” and the role of the educator in creating a culture of continuous learning. Attendees were VCH and Fraser Health educators across varied health care disciplines and communities of care, including VCH’s rural areas.

The daylong event was a joint venture between VCH and Fraser Health and led by VCH’s Clinical Education department. Barb Lawrie, Vice President of Professional Practice and Chief Clinical Information Officer, began the day by welcoming everyone and she thanked educators for the vital role they play in supporting staff through the rapid transformations across the health care sector.

“Your role is instrumental in leading change and supporting staff during a time of transition, and I thank you for your contributions,” said Barb.

Keynote speaker, Diane Macgregor, Associate Chief Nursing Officer for Alberta Health Services,

Keynote speaker, Dianne MacGregor, Associate Chief Nursing Officer for Alberta Health Services, spoke about best practices for inspiring others and how to lead through influence without authority.

“To engage learners you have to really listen and take the time to get to know your staff and let them know you believe in them and will be there for them,” said Dianne.

Dianne ended with describing how educators are role models for empowering employees to achieve excellence in patient centered care.

Inspiring learning and innovation

More sessions followed that “created inspiration and connection to the work [educators] do every day to inspire learning,” shared an attendee after the event.

• Simone Riml, Wellness Manager at EFAP, shared strategies for creating happiness at work
• Bob Aitken, Centre for Instructional Development, VCC shared stories about empathy in education
• Karen Schafer, Regional Manager of Simulation, spoke about key concepts in succeeding in simulation learning
• Felicia Granger, Advisor of Culture and Innovation in EE, shared best practices on implementing change that “sticks”
• Barb Langlois, Regional Manager, Educator Development walked through exercises that helped educators connect with one another at the event

Thank you!

Shelley Fraser, Director of Education Strategy for CST and Clinical Orientation, ended the day by thanking everyone who attended and contributed to a successful event.

Thank you to the entire committee who helped make the day a success:  Kate McBride (chair), Anna Chou, Richard Pinto, Teresa Green, Sarah Pike, Becy Seet, Kristie Naayer, Debbie Miki, Patricia Roy and Shannon Burgert, Fraser Health.

Thanks also to our VCH and FH leadership for their ongoing support, and lastly our exhibitors: Fraser Health’s Clinical Professional Development, Professional Practice (Shannon Burgert), VCH Clinical Education (Tina Haayer), and BC Patient Safety and Quality Council (Danielle Simpson).

For more information and current educator opportunities, please email Kate McBride, Clinical Education Lead, at Kate.McBride@vch.ca.