Evaluation of the first year of a pilot study of a new Graduate Diploma/MSc in Psycho-oncology through the School of Nursing & NICB, Dublin City University, Ireland

OBJECTIVES: In Ireland, psychosocial care for the person with cancer is recognised in the National Cancer Strategy (2006). However, psychosocial oncology service provision is currently ad hoc and healthcare professionals working in the oncology setting have often received minimal education in psychosocial aspects of cancer care. The Graduate Diploma/MSc in Psycho-oncology aims to provide an international standard third level accredited programme of education in psycho-oncology to help to drive the development of psycho-oncology services in Ireland. METHOD: The pilot with seven students began in October 2009, one day per week. The first year focused on the development of students' knowledge and skills relevant to assessment of distress and pain in patients with cancer, along with appropriate interview and referral skills. Other subjects covered were the science of cancer, communication skills for empathic listening, explaining cancer treatments in lay terms and recruiting patients to clinical trials, as well as research skills for psycho-oncology. RESULTS: Each lecture/workshop was evaluated by students on a weekly basis using the LecTrain evaluation form, comprising a Likert scale and a pre post self evaluation of learning outcomes and qualitative comments. At the end of each semester a more detailed School of Nursing module evaluation form was completed by each student. Students were continuously assessed with both written and practical assignment (video and self assessment of communication and assessment skills; classroom presentation) components. CONCLUSIONS: So far the psycho-oncology programme has been evaluated positively by students, particularly the provision of online Moodle and general support, assessment and CBT workshops, as well as video and classroom practicals. Students' learning outcomes are reflected in the high standard of their assignments. The motivation and enthusiasm of students to transfer psycho-oncology knowledge to the clinical setting will assist their preparation for the research dissertation for the Masters degree in Psycho-oncology next academic year.