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FAQs for healthcare mentors

What type of things do I need to consider before applying for a course?

  • Before applying for the course look at student allocations. Is is advisable to have a student or learner working with you for the duration of the course.
  • You will need a practice based supervisor who will support you and assess you during the course. Your supervisor needs to be a senior mentor, sign off or practice educator equivalent.
  • Computer skills – are you proficient? Your tutor will explain how to use StudyNet and there is an online tutorial for you to hone your literature searching skills but you will not be ‘taught’ how to use a  computer.
  • Plan ahead – book your off duty now so you can attend the introductory and taught/tutorial sessions. Establish how you will make time in your life for work placed and self-directed learning.
  • If you have any holiday or major events booked over the summer, is now a good time to study?

Which course would be good for me?

Are you the kind of person who can work independently and online as opposed to ‘real life’ groups such as you get in taught sessions? If you prefer taught sessions, then the distance learning courses are not probably not right for you.

Which academic level is right for me?

  • If you have a BSc (Hons) degree – study at level 7
  • If you have a UK Diploma in Higher Education (or 120 credits at level 4 and 5) – study at level 6
  • If you have never studied at a UK higher education institution, we strongly recommend that you complete a taught course rather than the distant learning courses.

What is blended learning?

Blended learning involves a mixture of learning activities designed to meet  specific learning outcomes. The types of activities that you will complete are:

  • 20 negotiated hours of face to face taught sessions at the University of Hertfordshire
  • 30 hours work placed directed learning (developing your skills as a mentor  and completing learning activities in your practice area)
  • 100 hours independent study (reading, assessment preparation, study activities)