The difference is Deakin University.

Digital Technology and Information Literacy for Emerging Health Practitioners

Health care professionals require advanced information and technology literacy to be effective practitioners in the digital world 3

References1 Hollis, V., & Madill, H. (2006). Online learning: the potential for occupational

therapy education. Occupational Therapy International, 13(2), 61-78.

2 Kennedy, G., Krause, K., Judd, T., Churchward, A., & Gray, K. (2006). First year students experiences with technology: Are they really digital natives? Melbourne, Victoria: Centre for Higher Education, Melbourne University.

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Digital Technology in Higher Education 1, 2

> Computer/Email/Web

> Library data-bases

> WebCT/ discussion

> Text/SMS

> MP3/Podcasting

Emerging Technologies 2, 4

> Video-conferencing

> e-portfolios

> Social software

• Wiki’s

• Blogs/Vlogs

• Student podcasting

> Mobile phone for SMS, images & web access

> RSS feeds

> Instant messaging

Social SoftwareSocial software facilitates social networking in the online environment and enables users to become contributors to digital knowledge. Social software harnesses a collective intelligence 5

Role of Higher EducationDevelopment of ICT knowledge and skill at University facilitates: 3

> Engagement in lifelong learning in the online environment

> Participation in online professional forums for critical reflection and professional development

> Use of ICT as a therapeutic tool

Universities have a crucial role in enhancing learning through the use of innovative technologies 2

ICT in practice 3, 6

ICT connects practitioners with each other to discuss:

> research, ethics, training, clinical practice issues

> strategic planning, health promotion, budgeting, marketing and communication

ICT connects practitioners with clients through:

> therapeutic games (e.g.: Wii)

> virtual therapies

> self-help and peer support services

> cyber-counselling

> knowledge transmission

ANITA HAMILTON, DEAKIN UNIVERSITy, AUSTRALIA