The UAB Interprofessional Passport Program

OIPC has created a learner Interprofessional (IP) Passport Program for UAB centered on engaging learners as they develop skills and knowledge needed to be effective members of interprofessional (IP) teams.

The UAB IP Passport has been designed in partnership with the Schools of Nursing, Public Health and the Department of Social Work. It is hosted by the Center for Interprofessional Education and Simulation (CIPES) and Office of Interprofessional Curriculum (OIPC).

Learners are actively engaged in IP activities both on-line and on-campus where they earn digital Badges, an electronic display that recognizes and validates knowledge or skills through explicit evidence. Students earn Badges, grouped within three learning pathways depending on the knowledge and skills needed to master each of the four IPEC Sub-Competencies (Roles and Responsibilities, Teams and Teamwork, Values and Ethics, or Communications) at each stage of IP development. The three pathways are:

• Foundation – Introductory information and practice regarding the principles of how to be an effective Interprofessional Team Member
• Immersion – Classroom or other activities with active learning experiences involving other professions
• Mastery – Simulation or community-based training where an interprofessional team completes a project involving a patient(s) or community group. (e.g. student-led clinics)

This system is adaptable and easily expanded to reward learners across campus for engaging in a wide range of interprofessional learning activities. Each learning pathway supports a learner’s progress through a range of specific courses, academic programs, and learning experiences. Each pathway includes a roadmap describing the learning landscape from an interprofessional perspective.

Pathways contain key elements that represent specific objectives, requirements, competencies, or other "real-world" experiences (including service learning) for professions. (Badgr.com)

Embeded in each eBadge are the IPEC sub-competencies that have to be demonstrated to earn the badge. eBadges can be shared in online platforms, added to resumes and CVs and uploaded to an electronic "backpack" so that each student can retain the eBadge after they graduate.