Master of Health
Professions Education
The programme that
touches the world
Editor:
Tanja van Zoeren
Master of Health Professions Education
Maastricht University
Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Contents
Introduction .......................................................................................................... 5
Countries.............................................................................................................. 7
Stories from the MHPE Alumni ................................................................................. 9
Mylene Dandavino .............................................................................................. 9
Hanan Alkadri....................................................................................................10
Harumi Gomi .....................................................................................................11
Claudia Ehlers ...................................................................................................13
René Claassen ...................................................................................................14
Melissa Nothnagle ..............................................................................................15
Nouf Sulaiman Al Harbi .......................................................................................16
Noof Khalid Al Baz .............................................................................................17
Widyandana ......................................................................................................18
Poh-Sun Goh .....................................................................................................19
Elsie Kiguli-Malwadde .........................................................................................21
Mora Claramita ..................................................................................................23
Rachmadya Nur Hidayah.....................................................................................25
Maria Guadalupe Pina Navarro .............................................................................26
Tim Dornan .......................................................................................................27
Aweke Yilma .....................................................................................................28
Maria Rurainsky and Imke Winkelmann ................................................................30
Hisham Mirghani ................................................................................................32
Oktarina ...........................................................................................................33
Franciska Koens ................................................................................................34
Anthony Amalba ................................................................................................35
Stefan Kutzsche.................................................................................................36
Abdul Majeed ....................................................................................................37
Dominique Waterval ...........................................................................................39
Inge Speth-Lemmens .........................................................................................40
Tips on how to complete the MHPE Programme by a MHPE Alumni ..............................41
Graduates Photographs throughout the Years ..........................................................43
Contact Information: ............................................................................................45
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Introduction
In 2012 we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Master of Health Profession Education
programme of the Maastricht University’s School of Health Professions Education. The
staff and the Schools International League of Alumni (SHEILA) have invited the alumni of
the MHPE to write about their experiences during and after the programme.
The Alumni’s responses are gathered in this booklet. Their essays speak for themselves.
The responses have made us very proud, and humble. We are aware of the investments
that the MHPE participants had to make to complete the programme. The programme
requires participants to be involved for at least 2-year half time, often longer.
Moreover, it requires that participant collaborate between different areas around the
world. Health problems don’t stop at nations’ borders, and international collaboration is
strongly called for. Intercultural competence must therefore also be mobilised and
enhanced.
But the MHPE programme also requires that participants practice with a form of
education that is very new to them. A change of attitude, from “reproductive learning” to
“adult learning” is required, and the format of distance education is not an easy one to
achieve this.
Graduating as a Master of Science in Health Professions Education is an honour but also a
responsibility. The essays in this booklet give evidence that our graduates can handle this
responsibility.
Jan van Dalen
Programme Director
June 2012
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Countries
Since the beginning of the MHPE programme in 1992, participants from all over the world
came to Maastricht to take part in the Master of Health Professions Education
Programme.
A few countries that we had the pleasure to have participants from:
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Argentina
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Belgium
Brazil
Canada
Colombia
Congo
Costa Rica
Curacao
Denmark
Ethiopia
Germany
Ghana
India
Indonesia
Japan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kuwait
Mexico
Malaysia
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Mozambique
Netherlands
Nigeria
Norway
Pakistan
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
South Africa
Spain
Taiwan
Tanzania
Thailand
Trinidad
Turkey
Uganda
United Arab Emirates
United States of America
Vietnam
Zanzibar
Of course, all had their own reasons to join the MHPE programme. Here are some of their
impressions.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Mylene Dandavino
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Dr. Mylene Dandavino from Montreal, Canada. I am an academic
paediatrician and clinical educator at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, affiliated with
McGill University.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2010.
What did you like most of the programme?
What I liked most of the programme was the contact time in Maastricht! It allowed me to
live for a little while in a beautiful, old European city and discover the surprising Dutch
people and their culture; to meet my fellow assignment partners to make the rest of the
year easier; and to get to know/get to be known by some of the most renowned medical
educators in the world.
What has the programme brought you?
My job at the academic centre I wanted to work at, the flexibility in my job that I wanted
to ensure medical education protected time, but also to take care of my little family, and
the credibility I needed vis-à-vis my colleagues.
Anything else you would like to share?
The warmth and openness of the MHPE teachers and staff, allowed us all to feel at ease,
no matter whom we were and what our objectives in doing this degree were. Their
adaptability when unexpected things happened, such as a bus strike, speaks highly of the
commitment of the MHPE team to their program. Chapeau!
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Hanan Alkadri
Will you please introduce yourself?
I am Dr. Hanan Al-Kadri, consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology at King Saud bin
Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi
Arabia. I joined the MHPE program in 2006 to develop my educational skills.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in 2008, and I have to say that the MHPE program has
changed a lot of my work interests, career plans and preferences!
What did you like most of the programme?
Our institution has established recently a Health Science University with teaching based
on a PBL curriculum. Having been educated in a traditional way, I felt that MHPE was the
best guide to PBL curriculum teaching and implementation.
The MHPE program was very helpful in establishing the baseline knowledge that is
required for further education, curriculum understanding, leadership, assessment,
statistics, research and many others. At the beginning, I felt the program is hard and
difficult to be achieved. The volume of information and new terminologies were huge, but
soon it started to smooth and became enjoyable and interesting.
What has the programme brought you?
Following graduation from MHPE, I worked on PhD proposal on students’ assessment and
became one of the PhD students in the University of Maastricht. Now I am preparing for
my thesis defence in June, 2012.
Anything else you would like to share?
The program has brought to me new interests, opportunities and career plans, new
qualifications that I am proud of, new communications with both seniors and junior
colleagues in the domain of Medical Education and more mature understanding of many
educational and cultural issues related to students learning.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Harumi Gomi
Will you please introduce yourself?
I am Harumi Gomi from Japan. Present appointment: Associate Professor, Centre for
Clinical Infectious Diseases, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
Professional Degrees:
1993 MD, Okayama University Medical School, Japan
2000 DTM&H, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK
2003 MPH, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
Expertise: Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2012.
What did I like most of the programme?
The most impressive strengths of this program include generosity for diversity of
students with multi-cultural background. Most of the faculty, classmates, and
administrative staff members are truly culture-sensitive, supportive and friendly.
Their warm responses to my inquiries encouraged me significantly all the time.
During the on-campus units, I had a great time to exchange cultures with students I
encountered in my class or other classes. These exchanges were both personal and
professional. This networking experience has continued since then, and I maintain this
“global network” with those individuals even when I am in my home country at present.
Regarding the program itself, I was very impressed with on-campus units in Maastricht. I
enjoyed Dutch culture as well as various cultures from my classmates. In addition, I truly
liked the instructional designs, like a “pebble-in-the-pond” style. I was able to learn little
by little with certain confidence. All the instructors were very patient for us to discover
new things on our own. In distance learning, I was behind the schedule most of the time.
Communications via Skype with my classmates and frequent email exchanges with our
instructors kept me motivated to complete assignments. I am very proud of myself that I
was able to obtain the MHPE degree on time within two years. This could never happen
without this supportive learning environment.
What has the programme brought you?
The MHPE program brought me to a new horizon in my career. I am a clinician in
infectious diseases. I have loved teaching and learning for a long time. The expertise in
medical education has further encouraged me to continue on research projects that I got
involved in at present. I never thought about this when I entered the program. I believe,
however, that this instructional design itself worked so well for me that I was motivated
to continue more.
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Anything else you would like to share?
My greatest gratitude to the MHPE program, faculty, staff, and classmates
I would like to express my greatest gratitude to the MHPE program faculty, staff, and
friends from all over the world. I did experience “transformation” through this program.
This program is truly valuable for all teachers in medical field. I can strongly recommend
this to those who are interested in learning medical education.
”Leading in Learning” is my favourite mission of this program.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Claudia Ehlers
Will you please introduce yourself?
I am Claudia Ehlers from Germany.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2010.
What did you like most of the programme?
Our group of students was excellent and I enjoyed being with students from all over the
world. We learned a lot... Having the chance of working, celebrating, learning,
communicating and just being together with students of diverse nationalities and
backgrounds helped me to value experiences of all varieties. And: I do appraise my
studies on my way becoming an expert of Medical Education.
Working in Uganda while applying for the MHPE-Programme, my motivation was to build
up a Low Vision Training in East-Africa. Unfortunately, due to new priorities within my
company the vision stopped. Although... Maybe in future my dream still becomes reality?
What has the programme brought you?
I am designing how to improve parts of the training. One of the projects is about
improving the practical training in the final year of studies with a mentorship programme.
It is based on what I have learned within my MHPE-course. It includes a study guide of
modern assessment approaches. If you want to learn more about it, come to the AMEE
conference in Lyon, I will present a poster! - And: I am happy that most probably
Maastricht University is coming to Jena for some initial training sessions for this
mentorship programme.
So, I came back to my home-country in 2009 and trained students of orthopaedics. I
really enjoyed the work itself, teaching students is a nice profession! Sadly, the working
climate was unacceptable, so I had to look for a new challenge. The MHPE-Programme
with its excellent training offers various kinds of new possibilities. One of the MHPE-Units
is a group assignment to improve a fictive medical training programme – and our “dream
team” of five students worked hard, had fun and came to superior results. This work
inspired me to think about working in a medical faculty improving on the quality of
studies. When the medical faculty of Jena was looking for a Medical Educator I applied.
Anything else you would like to share?
One of the real advantages of studying in Maastricht: You are pushed to learn with
challenging assignments, they often focus on your current situation and you usually get
constructive feedback – and: You always can contact them for support. Even, if you have
finished.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
René Claassen
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is René Claassen, 40 years old. I am living in the South of the Netherlands.
Originally I worked as an intensive care nurse and since 2004 as a teacher in nursing at
The Zuyd University of Applied sciences. Besides that I am working as a researcher for
the research centre for Technology in Care.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2012.
What did you like most of the programme?
I was able to apply my new gained knowledge in to teaching practice. The content of the
program was very applicable in real life. As an example, the content of the program was
very helpful when I worked on new instructional design of the nursing teaching program.
What has the programme brought you?
The MHPE program stimulated me to be innovative in teaching. The MHPE program made
me able to underpin insights about the curriculum. Colleagues appreciated that and they
were willing to use my insights. I learned how I could support the organisation of the
nursing school on a tactic level. And of course, I met many inspiring teachers in the field
of healthcare, from over the whole world.
Anything else you would like to share?
Sometimes it is hard to follow a course like the MHPE, which is a mostly distance-based
course. Nevertheless, when having a good peer, and by using the network of the MHPE,
you will survive and you will become a good educational scientist.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Melissa Nothnagle
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Melissa Nothnagle. I am a U.S. family physician.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2010.
What did you like most of the programme?
Perhaps the most important fact is that the MHPE ushered me into an incredible
community of health professions educators from around the world. Through our struggles
and celebrations in the MHPE, my 22 classmates (from 6 continents!) forged lifelong
connections that are an ongoing source of support, creativity, friendship and inspiration.
What has the programme brought you?
The MHPE program supported and prepared me to take on educational leadership roles.
I hoped that the experience would support my career development in academic medicine,
and in fact it changed my career in ways I could not have anticipated. The program gave
me valuable skills in teaching, curriculum design, assessment, program evaluation and
educational research. As a faculty member at the Alpert Medical School of Brown
University, I was promoted this year to Associate Professor based on my successful
record of publications in medical education.
Anything else you would like to share?
In addition I am now Director of the Family Medicine Residency at Brown, a three year
postgraduate training program with 39 residents.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Nouf Sulaiman Al Harbi
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Nouf Sulaiman Al Harbi. I am from Saudi Arabia and I was awarded a
scholarship to pursue a master and a PhD in the field of Health Professions Education. I
chose the Maastricht University because of its reputation and because it offers learning
opportunities in a practical way.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in 2010.
What did you like most of the programme?
Studying MHPE was challenging but the support of the working team had made the
experience easier. I admired the easy communication – easy access strategy adapted
nearly by all the faculty members.
In addition, I learned a lot from working with different colleagues from different parts of
the world. I am now more open to differences and I realize the importance of
communicating with every team member and the importance of focusing on our work and
not our differences. I have to admit that each personality and each culture had brought
something different to the table and that enriched me one a way or another. I am really
thankful for that.
What has the programme brought you?
I’ve gained a deeper insight about myself as a learner while studying MHPE. I’ve been
spoon-fed while studying my whole life and it was really a different eye-opening
experience to start learning like an adult.
Anything else you would like to share?
I was lucky enough to spend two wonderful years in Maastricht while studying the
master. During which, I enjoyed the kindness and hospitality of the Dutch people. I think
Maastricht is a place that can help you skip the world for a while and find your inner
peace. You will do so with the company of nice people, lovely weather, and amazing food
and breathtaking nature.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Noof Khalid Al Baz
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Noof Khalid Al Baz, a 32 years old female from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in 2010.
What did you like most of the programme?
What I like most of the MHPE program is its comprehensiveness in term of its content.
On the other hand, it gave me the opportunity to meet different colleagues from various
countries and background. That enriched my experience and adds to me a lot.
During my study (two years) at the MHPE program, my experience and knowledge
expanded, and it exposed me to the theory and practice of most innovative concepts in
Medical Education under close supervision of experts and distinguished faculty in the
field.
What has the programme brought you?
Following graduation, I resumed my work at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for
Health Sciences in the Department for Medical Education. During this period I performed
a number of tasks in different units, such as coordinating and participating in workshops
under the Faculty Enhancement Unit, and becoming an active member in a task force
team that was responsible for developing and implementing a mentorship and portfolios
program in the College of Medicine under the Assessment Unit. This program was well
received by both mentors and students. Under the same unit I was assigned to develop
the educational portfolio for the medical internship program. Moreover, as for the
Evaluation Unit I participated in reviewing the policy and procedure of evaluating the
medical curriculum.
Anything else you would like to share?
Finally, I would like to thank everyone who made me feel at home during my stay in
Maastricht and guided me during my studying years. Especial thanks to my mentor
Marjan Govaerts.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Widyandana
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Dr. Widyandana, MHPE, PhD. from Indonesia. Staff in the Department of
Medical Education and Skills Lab Fac. of Medicine, Gadjah Mada University, Indonesia.
Alumni MHPE 2007, and PhD in Medical Education UM 2011.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2007.
What did you like most of the programme?
This is a very unique program, we called “picnic program”. The students really have to
survive in a self directed learning environment, such as; working hard in their
institutions, finishing assignments, and submitting the assignments on time.
However, we all realize with this system we can really apply what we got from MHPE
program, and implement it to our own institution directly.
We also realize that, during the course, our peers and supervisors gave constructive
feedback that guided us to learn more.
And, during direct meetings in SHE UM, Maastricht NL, we were so happy to get to know
each other personally, and meet people from all over the world. It’s such an
“international” environment that it might be difficult to compare it with other master
programs. Furthermore, even though we only met for a short time (a month) we were
very close, familiar like a family. Even after graduating we still keep in contact with each
other via internet, wow so special...!!!
What has the programme brought you?
This program is very impressive. It was able to give me a clear picture about medical
education, and gave me a very nice experience in joining an international master
program. And, I realize that this program was able to give me a strong basis to continue
my study into a PhD program, and finish it fast, 3 years and 10 months.
Anything else you would like to share?
It would be nice if the alumni also have opportunity to give feedback on MHPE student’s
assignments, and helping supervising thesis, etc. I think it will make the program
stronger.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Poh-Sun Goh
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Poh-Sun Goh from Singapore. I am a clinical radiologist, practicing as a
senior consultant in the radiology department, National University Hospital in Singapore.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2012.
What did you like most of the programme?
I signed up for the MHPE program in Maastricht after becoming convinced of the
necessity of formal training as a medical educator, after attending the AMEE meeting in
2008. I choose the MHPE program because it is arguably the best, and most highly
regarded academic program in this field by reputation.
My experience during the MHPE program (2009 to 2012) has been the most intellectually
stimulating, and professionally rewarding period of my career.
The academic/teaching staffs at Maastricht SHE are enthusiastic, dedicated teachers,
educational practitioners, and learning educational researchers.
My fellow students are wonderful, culturally diverse group from all over the world.
The Maastricht program is characterized by evidence based education, with both a
practice / practical skill orientation, and also providing a rigorous academic foundation,
which gives graduates of the program good preparation, and the possibility to move on
to a PhD.
What has the programme brought you?
I found that a deep appreciation of the fundamentals of learning, and understanding the
principles of best practice in delivering educational programs not only benefits our
students, but makes us much better learners ourselves.
I have found my clinical radiology skills have improved exponentially over the course of
the MHPE program; particularly since I developed a deep interest in the topic of
"deliberate practice" in training for mastery and excellence; and in evaluating different
strategies for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of teaching and learning
radiology.
My confidence in applying educational principles in teaching, designing residency
programs, speaking on educational topics in symposia and workshops, and starting the
journey as an educational scholar have greatly increased. My deep enjoyment of clinical
practice and participation in teaching activities has also increased significantly.
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The key contributing factor has been the conscious attempt throughout the MHPE
program to integrate the learning activities and MHPE unit assignments very closely with
what I am actually doing on a day to day basis as a clinical radiologist.
Total engagement with the course material and regular systematic maximum effort on
the assignments has brought about great benefits.
Anything else you would like to share?
I constantly share with everyone I meet that the MHPE program is one of the three best
things I have ever undertaken in life; and would do it all over again without hesitation.
Am looking forward greatly to continuing the journey of discovery while developing a PhD
proposal.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Elsie Kiguli-Malwadde
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Elsie Kiguli-Malwadde from Kampala, Uganda. I completed my MHPE
programme in 2008. I am a radiologist; when I completed my Radiology training I was
appointed a lecturer in the Department of Radiology, Makerere University. When I started
teaching students I taught like I had always been taught.
However, I always desired to be a trained teacher and to give my students more than
what I had gotten. As time went on I became the Head of Department of Radiology.
An opportunity came for me when I was asked to join the curriculum committee at a time
when the medical school was contemplating a curriculum change. I was a senior lecturer
but I knew very little about education. Joining this committee increased my desire to
learn more and also exposed me to a new field.
I applied for a fellowship at the Foundation for the Advancement of International Medical
Education and Research (FAIMER) in Philadelphia USA. In the mean time I was
interfacing a lot with the lecturers from Maastricht University and learning a lot from
them. They were working on a project on Curriculum Development at Makerere
University. I got inspired and applied to join the MHPE programme.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2008.
What did you like most of the programme?
This programme was a great eye opener to me, I learnt about how people learn,
curriculum development, teaching methods, assessment, medical education research and
many other topics. What I liked most about this programme is that it was a distance
programme and so gave me flexibility to continue working as I pursued the course and
also it was hands on. I was able to integrate what I was learning with my work as a
lecturer and I found this very interesting and beneficial. It was also a very well planned
programme, in that you knew exactly what was expected of you, it was outcome based.
What has the programme brought you?
This programme has changed my career around, not only am I a trained medical teacher
but I have been able to publish medical research papers. It has given me an opportunity
to do work outside just Radiology and I have influenced the way training is done at
Makerere University, and Uganda as a whole. It has propelled me to regional and
international level.
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Am now working as the Director of the Coordinating Centre for Medical Education
Partnership initiative (MEPI) which is a US funded project to 13 medical schools in Sub–
Saharan Africa aimed at improving medical education in the region, improving locally
relevant research and also increasing the numbers of Health workers in the region and
retaining them where they are most needed. Through my work I have been to many
African Institutions and have met many likeminded people who are interested in
developing Medical Education.
Anything else you would like to share?
I believe that every medical teacher needs training, not necessarily to the level of a
master but at least some courses so as to train health workers properly. Health
professions education is very important if we are to improve health in Africa and globally.
I want to thank all my teachers at Maastricht University. It was a great opportunity to be
taught by such distinguished men and women.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Mora Claramita
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Mora from Indonesia and I joined MHPE Program in 2002-2005. I was with ‘a
world-wide’ batch of MHPE program which consist of students from around the world! Nik
from Malaysia, Dujeepa from Nepal, Marcellina from Canada, Carol from Kenya, Madan
from Guyana (though he just with us for one year), Michael from Denmark, Claudia from
Switzerland, Hoa and Ngan from Vietnam, Nenita from The Philippines, Maria from
Mexico and Ineke from The Netherlands. I was lucky to find another ‘family’.
We sat on the sofa in front of the television and discussed things (“including” Problem
Based Learning); everyday, for six weeks. O yeah, on 2002, part of MHPE program that
was held in Maastricht University was still in winter. You can imagine how we chat during
a winter evening – It was so warm in thick sweaters near a heater (well, a small studenthouse has no fireplace of course). We had been enjoying how white snow fell down from
behind our window, from inside, with cups of coffee and tea and traditional sweets on the
table ....hhmm....right after a wonderful dinner served by one of our friends. So most of
those days, we had a very special dinner with ‘all around the world’ menu! What a life!
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in 2005. It should be in 2004 but I was expecting my
first baby, and I preferred to submit a manuscript instead of presenting my thesis.
Luckily, the manuscript was accepted for publication. Three years afterward, I got an
incentive from my university for this paper that had been published in an international
journal. So, benefit from MHPE continues.
What did you like most of the programme?
One of the most fundamental secrets of the MHPE program I think is how it promotes
high self directed learning. It gives us a certain task with a certain target and shows us
the variation of ways to do it in a certain time. So during the time, we can do as many
things as we want to full fill the tasks. ‘What we want’ will be taken care of by very
special comments that make us think further and then promote us to decide by our own
wisdom. This secret has made the MHPE a wonderful program, hasn’t it? It changes
thinking and so it changes people! I wish many more health professionals join this
program which is now opens in many centres. This program had indeed helped its fellows
to be better health professionals for their students, and finally it helps patients.
However, life goes on with good and bad stories. When the certificate of MHPE program
was sent to my home in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, in February 2005, I received it; I read
the title of the degree: Cum Laude and I cried in happiness and sadness at the same
time. Why, because nobody celebrated that moment. My family were still in a mourning
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stage of the lost of my one and only brother and almost at the same time my family in
law, in Banda Aceh, were impacted by the Tsunami. My husband was still finishing his
PhD program in Japan, so it was a rather hard and lonely moment in my life. Moreover, I
had no established working status at my university, because medical education had not
yet been recognized. I was working at the Skills Lab and doing secretarial work. My
MHPE friends in the same batch knew this story and they kept the spirit for me and made
me stronger.
What has the programme brought you?
Today I am an Associate Professor in Medical Education at Gadjah Mada University, I just
finished my PhD and I see many opportunities to contribute for better medical education
in the future, Insya-Allah.
Anything else you would like to share?
If I look back to the time I was in the MHPE program, I realize that the skills, knowledge
and professionalism I gain every day is so much influenced by the MHPE program. The
way teachers invited us for a dinner in their home, had opened my view for studentteacher relationship in which should be of similar equity to doctor-patient relationship; a
topic that I had studied for many-many years that resulted from a ‘feedback-session’
with a simulated patient during the MHPE program. The way teachers provided feedback
to our assignments was very detail, and promoted deep reflection to literature as well as
experiences.
It may sound simple, but I think MHPE assignments are really sharpening our reflection
skills and these are foundations for better learning. If somebody asked me what has the
program brought you? It brought me better learning – a better world!
Happy 20th Anniversary MHPE Program – Maastricht University!
Mora Claramita, MD, MHPE, PhD.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Rachmadya Nur Hidayah
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Rachmadya Nur Hidayah, from Indonesia.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2012.
What did you like most of the programme?
Collaborative and self-directed learning are what I liked most of this programme.
What has the programme brought you?
The MHPE programme has encouraged me to learn about medical education and brought
new perspective on how I could apply it in my institution. The collaborative learning
motivated me to work with my colleagues; either from the same country or abroad. It
helped me to broaden my view on this field. The distance learning format promoted selfdirected learning; thus I know how it feels as students when we expected to do so. I
hope I will be able to strive for better medical education in my institution after finishing
my MHPE.
Anything else you would like to share?
The teachers were inspiring, the staffs were helpful, and it was a really great experience
learning in MHPE programme. Thank you SHE!
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Maria Guadalupe Pina Navarro
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Maria Guadalupe Pina Navarro from Mexico, Monterrey NL.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in 2007. A little bit later then I planned!
What did you like most of the programme?
I love the internationality of the program, share experiences with people from the whole
world, learn from each other and being in the most updated program in professional
education.
What has the programme brought you?
Learn a new perspective in education, be open minded about new strategies, open my
road in my medical education profession, meet great people like the staff of the MHPE
who always supported me when I needed it. Also getting to know a great human being
as Jan van Dalen and the rest of the teachers.
Anything else you would like to share?
My MHPE group of students were the first with Jan as a director; we developed a sense of
bond, an identity between us. At the end of the second year for the good-bye party we
composed a song with the rhythm of La Bamba, where we talked about our experience in
Maastricht and with our professors (always respectfully) and that was great!! Still get in
touch through our web connection.
Thank you Maastricht for such a wonderful time!!
A big hug
Maria from Mexico!
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Tim Dornan
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Tim Dornan from England and – thanks to the MHPE – the Netherlands.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in 2002.
What did you like most of the programme?
The thing I liked most about the programme was the resident blocks when a remarkable,
international group of us lived together for up to 6 weeks at a time, got to know one
another very well, and had some evening social events which I will remember as long as
I live for being such good fun.
What has the programme brought you?
It would not be an exaggeration to say that MHPE was life-changing from me. It started a
process that changed me from a busy clinician with an interest in medical education to an
education researcher. And I had the privilege of developing a closer and closer
relationship with Maastricht so that is now where I work.
Anything else you would like to share?
The real heroes and heroines of MHPE, apart from the wonderful tutors and students,
were the fabulous administrators – currently Tanja and Caroline – and the academic
leaders who gave a substantial proportion of their academic lives to making MHPE what it
now is; Els Boshuizen and Jan van Dalen. I couldn’t imagine a better person than Renee
Stalmeijer to carry this wonderful course into what I am sure will be a bright future.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Aweke Yilma
Will you please introduce yourself?
I am Aweke Yilma. I am a Registered Nurse by basic profession. I have received MSc in
Health Professions Education (MHPE) in June 2009 from Maastricht University, the
Netherlands. By June 30, 2012, I will be receiving my second Masters in Pain
Management from University of Edinburgh, UK. Currently I work as the Head for
Research & Development Office of the College of Medicine & Health Sciences of Hawassa
University, Ethiopia. Recently, I have been awarded the FAIMER Institute 2012
Fellowship from the Foundation for Medical Education and Research InstitutePhiladelphia.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE program in June 2009. I managed to complete the MHPE program
within the given 2 year time for which the School of Health Professions always recognises
me.
What did you like most of the programme?
There is nothing that I didn’t like of the MHPE program. Let me tell you my experience.
Above all, unlike the teacher controlled academic environment I am brought up in, the
MHPE program made me an independent learner who controls his own learning. This has
helped me take responsibility for my own learning, the context that fits an adult learner.
As to the Master Thesis, be assured that you will receive the best quality feedback and
supervision that helps you utilize your potential to the maximum. Don’t expect them to
give you the fish. They will teach you how to fish. They will make you challenge your own
assumptions. This leads you to be a critical person in your day to day activity.
The ever-shining quality of the MHPE program that I always witness is the quality of the
teachers. The support and the feedback I was receiving on my progress and course work
has always impressed me. This has laid the brick for my today’s competence and
development. These teachers were not only teachers. They were also counsellors and
career advisors. They were friends with whom you share your personal problems. They
were really helpful. As to the administrative staff, the Administrative Assistants are
always there to respond and assist. They were friendly and humble. They have made my
MHPE experience the best of my times.
Although I was required back home to complete the MHPE program in 2 years, the
program is flexible for busy professionals who want to do it over 2 years.
What has the programme brought you?
The MHPE Program has brought me many opportunities. First, on completing my MHPE
study in 2009 from Maastricht, I have been promoted to be Head of the School of
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Nursing & Midwifery. During the 3 years I have been working in this position, I have been
recognized for changing various traditional academic activities in my institution.
I have been consulted by Ministry of Education of Ethiopia and UNFPA to design national
level health professions curricula and led the curriculum modularization process in my
Institution. It is mainly as a result of my MHPE qualification and the performance I
demonstrated that I am recently promoted to be Head for Research & Development
Office of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences of Hawassa University.
The MHPE qualification and faculty have significantly helped me win the FAIMER Institute
2012 Fellowship. Initiating me apply for the fellowship and supporting me in all the
process of application, the MHPE community has helped me realize my passion to
develop in the profession of Health professions education and educate the future
professionals. That is why I am planning to do my PhD in Maastricht.
Anything else you would like to share?
Thank you for everything.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Maria Rurainsky and Imke Winkelmann
With the following lines we want to share our experiences and highlights about the MHPE
programme. We hope it will contribute to a colourful and illustrative picture with respect
to the program’s 20th Anniversary.
Will you please introduce yourself?
In 2009, the introduction of 26 new MHPE students revealed that two people living and
working in Germany were part of the new cohort. That was us: Maria Rurainsky and Imke
Winkelmann. And what a coincidence – both of us occupational therapists (OT) working
at schools for initial vocational education and training in Germany.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
Maria graduated in June 2011 and Imke graduated in June 2012.
What did you like most of the programme? What was the programme like?
We became part of a multi-faceted mixture of students from different professions, ages
and nationalities. It was more than meetings fellow-students: we met many friends, and
even now, after graduating in 2011 and 2012 we still stay in contact and like to share
aspects of their/our lives with each other and we are still sharing thoughts and
discussions across borders. Besides getting a broadened view of health professions, their
work and education across the world we also spent joyful evenings in beautiful
Maastricht.
After intense phases at the University we were requested to work for ourselves back at
home and to relate the content of an assignment directly to the own working
environment.
What has the programme brought you?
Currently, education for OTs in Germany - as the only country in Europe where a
bachelor degree is still not mandatory as entrance level to this profession - takes place
mainly on a non-academic level and is faced with a situation of change towards
academization.
More and more Bachelor and Master Programs for occupational therapy are designed and
implemented (something we hope to contribute to). In these terms the input of new
approaches to learning, teaching and assessment always brought the question of whether
and how they could be transferred to our institutions and circumstances. Applicationoriented tasks in our assignments - such as the analyses of the institution’s curriculum, a
colleague’s expertise, of students’ learning styles, of leadership or of occupational
therapists as teachers in organizations -triggered and supported such transfer.
Therefore, the MHPE was a strong contributor to our strive for improvement in our
working contexts.
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Both our careers have remarkably benefited. Highlights of our current professional lives
are for example: workshop-activities within the context of teacher training courses, new
teaching activities in the context of a dual study program between the ‘own’ occupational
therapy school and an university of applied sciences, increased engagement in curriculum
design, teaching at an university of applied sciences, a presentation at the annual OT
congress as well as the design and implementation of a project to improve educational
quality in preparation for the students internships.
Anything else you would like to share?
We enjoyed our time at the MHPE (despite occasional hard struggles), which was an
enriching experience due to very stimulating collaborative learning, exchange as well as
knowledge-acquisition - factors which nourish our professional development and identity.
We send a warm thank you and hope to see you again. Happy Birthday, Master of Health
Professions Education programme!
Maria Rurainsky and Imke Winkelmann
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Hisham Mirghani
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Hisham Mirghani. I am from Sudan. I am currently working at United Arab
Emirates University, Al Ain District, United Arab Emirates. I am an Obstetrician & a Fetal
Medicine specialist.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2012.
What did you like most of the programme?
The program is well structured offering on campus and distance learning opportunities. It
provides students with the opportunity to gain a variety and wide spectrum of skills
related to health profession education. The tutors in this program are of high calibre and
very dedicated to the program. I also liked the innovative methods used to enhance
distance learning including typed lectures, Skype, Illuminate, and videos.
What has the programme brought you?
Although I am directly involved in health profession education, the program opened my
eyes to the scientific base and skill needed by all those involved in health profession
education: curriculum development, learning, teaching, and assessment. It provided me
with the tools to become more proactive and innovative in my teaching. Furthermore, it
enhanced my research capabilities in medical education; in particular, that related to
qualitative research.
Anything else you would like to share?
The positive effects the program had on my abilities as a teacher in a medical school
encouraged me to apply for the PhD in Maastricht University.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Oktarina
Will you please introduce yourself?
I am Oktarina. I am a medical doctor, and work at the Faculty of medicine and health of
Muhammadiyah Jakarta University as a medical teacher.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I started studying at MHPE in 2009 and graduated in 2012, the delay due to maternity
leave.
What did you like most of the programme?
For me, MHPE is needed for teachers in health and medical school. This program
developed my vision on education, especially of health professions. Moreover, it did not
only strengthen my cognition, but my metacognition was also developed during the
study. It gave me valuable experiences on learning how to reflect on self ability and
collaboration.
I found that MHPE performs an excellent implementation of a competency-based
curriculum which challenges students to learn and to achieve required competencies on
their time management.
The program is supported by professional teachers and staff. I really appreciate that
teachers and planning group prepared the course materials very well and they provided
feedback in a very motivating approach. While the staff, they gave information kindly
and clearly.
What has the programme brought you?
In the very beginning, I worried about references. However, I did not find any difficulties
even though I was far from campus and I did not have sufficient access to books about
psychology and education because of little experience with the electronic learning
environment “Eleum”. It is a very helpful learning tool, because references as well as
course and program information are uploaded in it.
Now, I apply in advance the knowledge I have gained in MHPE for developing curriculum
in my institution.
Anything else you would like to share?
Thanks MHPE. Thanks for all the teachers, supporting staff, and my friends.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Franciska Koens
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Franciska Koens (The Netherlands).
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in 2009. By the time of graduation, I was expecting
my first daughter and while writing this, daughter number two is making itself presently
aware!
What did you like most of the programme?
I have very fond memories of the programme, not only the programme itself but
especially all my fellow students with their different backgrounds and colourful cultures.
I learned from my African colleagues how to implementing PBL with less resources and
they had some wonderful creative solutions. If you really want to, you can make it work!
However, this parole does not always hold. Being an enthusiast MHPE-student, I tried to
implement some changes back at work (as a medical educator). I remember one time
specifically when I tried to implement something at work and I didn’t receive any
cooperation, even though there was enough evidence that it would work. I liked it when
discussing this with my mentor, who also was not always able to ‘win’ the discussions.
I felt at ease, probably it wasn’t the right time to implement something new.
Having a mentor to discuss those issues was particularly helpful throughout the
programme. Sharing any problems about the learning matter with fellow students was
too. We helped each other by providing feedback and discuss difficulties we experienced,
not only about the MHPE but also at work or private matters – time management has
always been an issue…
What has the programme brought you?
The programme has given me a broader basis in medical education and insight in
implementing educational change. Then again, cultural awareness and an open mind
come too with following an international MHPE programme, and that’s the surplus value
of a MHPE programme with face-to-face education.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Anthony Amalba
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Anthony Amalba, from Ghana. I am a Clinical Pharmacist and staff of the
School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS) of the University for Development
Studies (UDS), Tamale.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I belong to the 2006-2008 MHPE year group and I graduated the MHPE programme in
June 2008.
What did you like most of the programme?
Let me first of all congratulate the dedicated members of staff and the secretariat of the
MHPE programme at Maastricht University on the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the
MHPE Programme.
The one most important thing I learnt in the MHPE programme was the realisation that
learning can be very meaningful. I learned through the MHPE programme how to guide
students towards an elaborative, self-directed, life-long learning as against the traditional
approach that seems to guide students towards adoption of less desirable study
approaches such as rote learning through memorising, surface learning approach etc.
I also learnt from the programme how to give and receive feedback. Receiving feedback
has helped me improve a lot not only in my academic career but also in my personal life.
I used to be very sensitive to criticism and always got angry when people criticised my
work but now I see this not as criticism but as feedback (whether positive or negative).
What has the programme brought you?
In the year 2007, SMHS finally introduced the PBL/COBES methodology after two initial
failed attempts to introduce this innovative approach. This was as a result of a lack of
knowledge of the PBL methodology. This was the time I had to apply all the knowledge I
had acquired at least during the first year of the MHPE programme. With hard work and
determination and also avoid another failure of the PBL methodology I did everything
possible for the program to succeed. I had read a lot about other universities in different
countries that had implemented the PBL programme with its added challenges. I was
convinced that with hard work we shall succeed at SMHS. It was not surprising that the
then Ag. Dean of the School appointed me as the Chairman of the PBL implementation
Committee.
I was involve with experts from Maastricht University, Walter Sisulu University, South
Africa, Catholic University of Mozambique in organising workshops for staff on PBL, tutor
training, Curriculum development, skills training, Assessment etc.
Anything else you would like to share?
I want to wish all my MHPE Alumni a happy 20th Anniversary.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Stefan Kutzsche
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Stefan Kutzsche. My hard work culminated in the Vice Chancellor of the
University appointing me in August 2008 as the PBL Coordinator of the School of
Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS) of the University for Development Studies (UDS)
after my successful graduation with the International Masters in Health Professions
Education. This position is equivalent in status to that of a Head of Department.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in 2011.
What has the programme brought you?
I am also the Head of the Education Unit under the office of the dean; a unit which is
envisaging to become a department in the near future. The PBL program is in its 5th year
of implementation. Though there are a lot of challenges in terms of staff numbers,
infrastructure, learning materials etc. I cannot wait to see the first batch of the PBL
students graduating as doctors. This group and the subsequent ones that follow them will
revolutionise innovative medical education in Ghana.
Anything else you would like to share?
I am currently developing my PhD proposal with Maastricht University and hopefully if
accepted by the SHE PhD Research Programme of the University I will enrol into the PhD
program of Maastricht University.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Abdul Majeed
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Abdul Majeed. I was extremely thrilled to hear that the MHPE programme is
celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and I would gladly contribute to the booklet
which is being created in this reference.
I am a general surgeon by specialty. After graduating in 1973 I got my fellowship from
the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh and Glasgow in 1978. After coming back to my
home country I was fortunate enough to get appointed to one of the best teaching
hospitals of my country. That was the place where I started my career as a medical
teacher. And it was at this place that I gradually developed an interest in medical
education. After serving for almost 26 years in this institute, and to fulfil my unending
desire to learn, I joined the MHPE programme at the Maastricht University in 2004.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in 2008.
What did you like most of the programme?
Coming to Maastricht was the best thing that happened to me. Not only was I able to
meet people from different cultures but it left an inerasable impression on me. The
programme influenced the teaching of surgery and I became a better teacher.
After coming back I was appointed as the Principal of Fatima Jinnah Medical College and
in this capacity I was able to introduce a lot of changes. I encouraged my fellow
colleagues to adopt medical education as a career. We developed a Department of
Medical Education on modern lines. The first Skills lab in the country was developed
along with regular clinical skills teaching. Regular Faculty Development programmes were
started and sensitization of the faculty was a fact. A book on skills lab activities was also
published.
What has the programme brought you?
I influenced the Pakistan Medical and Dental council to make it compulsory to have a
Department of Medical Education in all medical teaching institutions of the country. This
led to a start of a culture change in the whole country. Currently we have 114 medical
schools in a population of 180 million people. Not only did I encourage and recommended
medical teachers for admission in MHPE programmes but I also helped universities to
develop local Master Programmes in medical education.
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At present 5 simultaneous programmes related to medical education, are running in
different universities in Pakistan; Agha Khan University, DOW University, College of
Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan, Khyber University and University of Health Sciences.
After leading this institute for 3 ½ yrs, I joined Lahore Medical and Dental College in May
2010 as Principal of the College. As Head of the Institute, I managed to develop the
Department of Medical Education and Skills lab. The skills Lab in this School is state of
the art and probably one of the best in the country. Here, new innovations in the form of
preparation of local manikins are also done. A faculty development programme was
started and 27 workshops were developed and conducted in a span of two years. A
personal tutorial- and mentoring system was also started. The faculty was motivated to
get enrolled in Medical Education courses.
Anything else you would like to share?
Currently 5 faculty members are enrolled in different programmes and two started their
MHPE at Maastricht in May 2012. Another book on Clinical Skills was also published.
I have to my credit, organization of 4 International conferences on Medical Education in
the past four years. These conferences were attended by medical educationists from
England, Germany, Holland, Singapore, Belgium, Switzerland, USA and Sri Lanka.
Original research papers were published on medical education in which I am principal and
or co author.
I hope this fission reaction, which started in my country, regarding the awareness of
Medical Education will change the face of medical teaching practices for the better.
I again thank you for letting me express the things University of Maastricht helped me to
do. I owe it to you.
Prof. Abdul Majeed
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Dominique Waterval
Will you please introduce yourself?
Hello! My name is Dominique Waterval. I work as project officer at SHE collaborates. This
office has recently been founded by FHML to structure and deepen our international
academic collaborations. Our office collaborates with partner institutes who would like a
sustainable transition process to a (more) student oriented method of education.
Although, SHE collaborates has been founded only recently, I work for the department of
Educational Development & Research since January 2009 as project manager on
franchise collaboration with a University in Saudi-Arabia.
Before returning to the UM as employee and not as student, I graduated in International
Economics, I have worked in (inter)national education projects abroad as independent
free-lancer at PBL minded faculties in Mozambique and Saudi-Arabia.
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2011.
What did you like most of the programme?
I always felt some kind of “ambassador of PBL and Maastricht University” during my
years abroad. Now, my MHPE degree legitimizes this claim to a certain extend. I loved
the international friendships and collaborations during the program. Although you don’t
see your fellow-students on a regularly basis, strangely there is a strong group feeling
during our half way module in Maastricht and especially during the final module and
graduation week.
What has the programme brought you?
The MHPE is a strong program especially for those who are capable to mould the content
of the individual assignments so that they benefit the home institution and your study.
Furthermore, the programme inspired me to start educational research and it fuelled my
PhD activities on cultural influenced when adopting a PBL curriculum.
Anything else you would like to share?
My congratulations with your anniversary.
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Stories from the MHPE Alumni
Inge Speth-Lemmens
Will you please introduce yourself?
My name is Inge Speth-Lemmens. I am living in Hulsberg, in the South of the
Netherlands nearby Maastricht. I am senior lecturer and member of the management
team of the department of Occupational Therapy at Zuyd University in Heerlen
When did you graduate the MHPE programme?
I graduated the MHPE programme in June 2007.
What did you like most of the programme?
It was a great opportunity to share knowledge with an enthusiastic international group,
all interested in education. Especially the units in Maastricht being together with all
nationalities all over the world were very exciting.
What has the programme brought you?
The MHPE programme challenged me to gather more knowledge about the educational
process, organisation of education at the university, quality of the programme etc. I am
more critical now. Doing a research project and writing a master thesis was quite a job
but with Lambert Schuwirth as supervisor a great challenge.
Anything else you would like to share?
For me, the most special aspect of the MHPE is sharing the diversity of knowledge and
experience with people from all over the world. I am still in contact with several study
mates. I hope we will stay in contact.
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Tips on how to complete the MHPE Programme
by a MHPE Alumni
How to get the most out of the MHPE program and How to complete the MHPE program
in the most painless way?
1. congratulations, you have signed up for arguably the top education masters
program available
2. remember why you signed up for the program, and enjoy the process as much as
possible
3. commit yourself to finish the program, and most importantly, try very hard to
commit yourself to staying on track with each unit
4. this will almost certainly require intermediate deadlines, set according to
assignment submission deadlines
5. try to do some work on the MHPE program every day, for example one to two
hours every weekday means less work on weekends - if necessary wake up a little
earlier
6. you will get out of the program what you put into the program, both in learning,
and in building relationships - 20 hours of homework per week really maximizes
the benefits of the MHPE program
7. there are no shortcuts, the greater the "time to task", the greater the benefits
8. make strategic use of your leave - for example, time your leave for the week
before your assignment submission deadlines
9. ask for help early, either via eleUM or email; and make sure for your team
projects, you make serious commitments to each other to communicate and
collaborate to finish the joint assignments
10. looking back, after completing the MHPE program this year, I realize that choosing
the Maastricht MHPE program has been one of the 3 best decisions I have ever
made
Good luck and enjoy yourself!!
Dr Goh Poh SunMBBS (Melb), FRCR, MHPE (Maastricht)
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42
Graduates Photographs throughout the Years
MHPE GRADUATES JUNE 2009
MHPE GRADUATES JUNE 2010
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MHPE GRADUATES JUNE 2011
MHPE GRADUATES JUNE 2012
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Contact Information:
School of Health Professions Education
Master of Health Profession Education
Maastricht University
P.O. Box 616
6200 MD Maastricht
The Netherlands
T:
F:
E:
W:
+31 43 388 57 77 / +31 43 388 57 78
+31 43 388 56 39
[email protected]
www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/she
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