Customising a capstone experience around assessment for learning: A case study for paramedic education

The modern role of the paramedic in Australia has evolved substantially in recent years, with the scope of practice expanding into what were once domains exclusive to medicine. A beginning practitioner needs to perform effectively within a seemingly limitless array of complex and unpredictable emergency situations, which may have significant implications for patient outcomes. The transition to professional practice is the focus of a redesigned capstone subject ‘Applied Paramedic Practice’. In an innovative design each student is placed at the centre of the learning experience with a personalised learning pathway assessing unique learning requirements and evidencing specific individual development in relation to professional competencies. With each assessment undertaken by the student informing the next, the student plays a major role in determining what they are to learn.