Project title ClinPsy-i: Web-based infrastructure for teaching and communications on the clinical psychology doctoral course

Abstract

This project aims to develop and integrate the support of students on placements using WebCT into the programme of study. This support to include the development of online learning materials and communities of practice with fellow students, tutors and clinicians.

Clinical psychology skills are best learnt in practical situations, but clinical placements in practice are isolated, and they can also be emotionally and technically demanding. Constant support and communication from the training institution and the student’s peer group are needed in order for students to succeed. Recent developments in Web-based teaching can help with this, including bulletin boards, chat rooms and noticeboards. This project will develop Web-based training material for Clinical Psychologists, contributing towards a more self-directed, modular model of training, important given probable large-scale expansion in Clinical Psychology training (due to recent NHS developments). It will create a learning community, including opportunities for support and reflection for Clinical Psychology students in the West Midlands; the project will also benefit NHS clinical supervisors who by tradition work in a relatively isolated manner.