In 2021, Ontario Health sought to enhance the understanding and awareness of First Nations, Indigenous, Inuit, and Métis (FNIM) culture among its healthcare professionals. To achieve this, they selected eLearningLair (eLL) to develop a comprehensive 14-module eLearning program covering various facets of FNIM culture. This program aimed to educate healthcare workers on topics such as Political Governance, Education, Community Health Services, Arts, and Legacy, with a particular focus on understanding the impact of historical events on the health and well-being of FNIM communities.
The primary objectives of this initiative were to provide healthcare professionals with an in-depth understanding of FNIM culture, ensure cultural sensitivity in healthcare settings, and improve the overall quality of care provided to FNIM communities. By achieving these goals, Ontario Health aimed to foster a more inclusive and respectful healthcare environment that acknowledges and respects the unique cultural heritage and needs of FNIM peoples.
eLearningLair’s approach began with a thorough needs analysis to identify the specific requirements and knowledge gaps of healthcare professionals regarding FNIM culture. This phase involved extensive content gathering and consultation with experts and community leaders to ensure the accuracy and cultural relevance of the information. By engaging with FNIM representatives, eLearningLair ensured that the program content was not only accurate but also respectful and reflective of the diverse perspectives within FNIM communities.
The instructional design and storyboarding phase was critical in outlining the learning objectives, content structure, and assessment methods for the program. eLearningLair committed to cultural sensitivity throughout this process, ensuring that the learning materials were appropriately structured and conveyed in a respectful manner. This phase also included the development of detailed storyboards that mapped out the flow of each module, incorporating interactive activities, quizzes, and discussion prompts to enhance learner engagement.
Content development focused on incorporating real-life examples and narratives to foster inclusivity and cultural sensitivity. eLearningLair employed multimedia elements such as videos, animations, and infographics to create an engaging and immersive learning experience. These elements were designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that the content was available to all learners, including those with disabilities. Additionally, the program was developed with bilingual support to accommodate both English and French speakers, reflecting Ontario Health’s commitment to inclusivity.
Interactive activities, quizzes, and discussions were strategically implemented to reinforce learning and promote active engagement. These components allowed learners to apply their knowledge in practical scenarios, enhancing their understanding and retention of the material. Thorough assessment and feedback mechanisms were integrated to provide learners with constructive feedback and track their progress throughout the course.
The review and iteration process was a testament to eLearningLair’s commitment to quality and cultural authenticity. This phase involved rigorous quality assurance checks and the incorporation of feedback from stakeholders, including FNIM community representatives and healthcare professionals. By continuously refining the content and delivery methods, eLearningLair ensured that the FNIM eLearning modules were both culturally appropriate and educationally effective.
The results of the program were highly positive. Healthcare professionals who completed the training reported a significant increase in their understanding of FNIM culture and its impact on health. This enhanced awareness translated into more culturally sensitive interactions with FNIM patients, contributing to improved healthcare outcomes. Ontario Health valued the thoroughness and cultural accuracy of the training program, which supported their broader goals of promoting diversity and inclusion within the healthcare system.
eLearningLair’s FNIM Culture Program has played a crucial role in advancing cultural competency among Ontario Health’s workforce. By providing a tailored, engaging, and culturally sensitive training solution, eLearningLair has helped Ontario Health foster a more inclusive and respectful healthcare environment, ultimately improving the quality of care provided to FNIM communities.