Evaluation of a career development community of inquiry/practice pilot project for internationally trained health care professio

Erin Gilbart, School of Health & Life Sciences 

This study examined the effectiveness of a community of inquiry/practice model to support career development for international students in the health care administration and service management program at Conestoga. The virtual community, hosted on MS Teams, was designed to enhance student self-efficacy in career decision-making by facilitating networking, resource-sharing, and problem-solving with support from faculty and Career Services. Survey-based research methods were used to assess changes in student confidence and perceptions of learning within the community. 

Response rates were lower than expected, influenced in part by policy changes affecting international student permits, visas, and post-graduate work opportunities during the study period. However, students who completed the follow-up survey provided positive feedback, indicating that a community-based approach to career support may have future utility. Initial self-efficacy scores were high and remained so at follow-up, though a slight decline was noted. Findings also highlighted student preferences for career resources, informing future career services offerings and curriculum development. 

While low participation limits statistical significance, results may be valuable as a case study exploring the impact of government policies on student engagement. The research team has submitted a presentation proposal for the E3 – Employees for Excellence in Education Conference in May 2025 and is considering scholarly dissemination through a literature review and manuscript publication.