Enhancing Workplace Learning: A Video Reflexive Ethnography Study

Introduction

The clinical environment offers rich learning opportunities through activities and interactions. Yet, because workplace learning (WPL) is embedded in practice, it tends to be invisible. For clinical teachers and researchers, identifying what is learned and how to enhance learning is challenging. Video reflexive ethnography (VRE), an innovative observational methodology, can illuminate and enhance workplace learning processes. This study explored WPL using VRE to determine its insights and potential to enhance learning.

Methods

Conducted in a rural Australian GP setting, this study utilised VRE, a practice-based methodology. Participants, including medical students and GPs, engaged in video ethnography (Phase 1) and captured workplace learning encounters in brief video clips (Phase 2). Reflexive sessions followed, where participants appraised these videoed encounters (Phase 3). Framework analysis, informed by workplace learning theory, explored (1) the video excerpts to explore workplace learning affordances and (2) transcripts of the reflexive sessions to examine learners' and supervisors' learnings.

Results

Analysis identified how supervisors guided students' learning through debriefing, dialogue, and articulation of clinical reasoning. Students shared their insights about workplace learning processes and their roles. Supervisors (medical and allied health) deepened their understanding of supervision by reflecting on their own and others' practices through video analysis.

Discussion

This study suggests VRE is a feasible research approach that also enhances WPL. Observational and participatory research methods can make the tacit explicit and open to dialogue, offering valuable contributions to workplace learning research.