Virtual gallery provides the perfect space for GCU students
Two District Nursing students have opened up on overcoming initial nerves to successfully deliver poster presentations at an online GCU event.
Stephanie McGroarty and Fiona Hastie were two of the students involved in the day of celebration, which took place on Wednesday 26 May and focused on innovation, leadership and change within the profession.
All students from the PGD Advancing District Nursing programme were encouraged to get involved, with continued restrictions preventing the summative module presentations taking place in person.
They were joined on the day by students and lecturers, as well as Practice Assessors, Practice Supervisors and Chief Nurses. Those in attendance were able to navigate around different presentations from the comfort of their own home via a virtual gallery.
Stephanie said: “Initially I was nervous about creating the poster as I’m not very good with IT. However, the guidance from the University was exceptional, especially the interactive session we had beforehand. Our lecturers, Helena Kelly and Lisa Barr were always there to point us in the right direction and alleviate any concerns we had.
On the day of the presentation I felt I could really showcase my innovation and express my enthusiasm. I don’t think this would of came across as well in the form of an essay.”
She added: “The gallery was amazing and getting to look at the other posters gave me ideas that I would like to implement within my own team.
I also noticed how much confidence my peers had gained throughout this module when they delivered their presentations.”
Despite the large audience watching on, Fiona was delighted to have been given the opportunity – especially during a global pandemic.
She explained: “I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first heard our summative assessment was going to be in the format of an academic poster presentation with a virtual conference. As time went on and I began to bring my poster to life, I soon realised this was going to be an exciting and engaging way to demonstrate my innovative idea.”
Fiona added: “The whole event was better than I could have imagined and really gave the feel of a real life conference, allowing me to virtually walk around the room and enjoy my colleagues’ posters. This is something that I never thought would have been possible due to the Covid pandemic.
I personally really enjoyed taking part in the event for my assessment, as opposed to a more conventional method, such as an essay. It gave me the opportunity to really sell my innovation and share my excitement - while also building my confidence in my presenting skills.”
By Ross Clark
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