The BDA has published a new guide designed to help develop education and academic practice-based learning (PBL) experiences for dietetic pre-registration learners in higher education settings.
PBL offers learners a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the academic profession. Through meaningful experiences such as shadowing academic staff, contributing to curriculum development, engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration and undertaking leadership tasks, learners gain valuable insights into the role of a lecturer. These experiences help prepare them for the diverse and evolving demands of their future careers.
This form of PBL nurtures critical thinking, teamwork, professionalism and leadership skills - all within a supportive academic setting. Ultimately, it provides learners with impactful opportunities that:
- Deepen their understanding of academic career pathways
- Expose them to potential roles within higher education
- Foster an appreciation for evidence-based practice and the broader impact of their dietetic profession
Najia Qureshi, Director of Education and Professional Practice at the BDA, says, “To shape a future-ready dietetic workforce, we must ensure that practice-based learning reflects the full richness and diversity of the environments in which dietitians work.
"Education and academia are not only vital to this vision - they are where the next generation of professionals is inspired and empowered. Dietitians in these settings play a pivotal role in shaping minds and advancing our profession. The BDA proudly supports expanding PBL opportunities in academic environments, both to grow capacity and to celebrate the essential contributions of dietitians in education.”
