While reading Burnard (1996) I was taken back in time in my days of actively monitoring interns on a work-based learning programme. My own career started as post-grad intern, which was rather haphazard. Later when I became responsible for the coordinating the under- and post-grad intern programme, my basic goal was to ensure a better experience for the interns.
Burnard (1996, p. 36) discusses Heron's (1986) 'six categories intervention analysis'. I reflected on my own experiences of having monitored numerous interns over several years. I discussed my monitoring methods with my partner and explained Heron's, and we concluded that all the methods I used are contained within Heron's six categories:
Heron is of opinion that apart form catalytic intervention, all five the other categories are of equal importance. I agree with Heron that catalytic is the bedrock intervention, because the monitor first need to establish rapport. My approach has always been to make some small talk, then general personal well-being and then to focus the monitoring on the intern's progress. First just gathering information and recording such. Although recording is not a facilitation method, it is very important for effective monitoring. Same as a health-care practitioner keeps a file on each patient, should the work-based learning facilitator/monitor keep a file on each intern to record information and observations. With the next monitoring visit the records serve as mind jogger and come in handy during confronting, because their is some evidence. In addition to my records during a monitoring session, I always visited the mentor and concluded my visit to the company by discussing my findings regarding each intern with the head of department. Back in the office I confirmed my contracting with the intern and agreement(s) with the head of department in a letter to the company. A copy of the letter is placed on the intern's file for reference during the next monitoring visit.
Heron, J. 1986. Six category intervention analysis. 2nd edition. Human Potential Research Project. Guilford: University of Surrey.
Burnard, P. 1996. Acquiring interpersonal skills - a handbook of experiential learning for health professionals. 2nd edition. London: Chapman & Hall.
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