August 2024
Transforming Healthcare Education: Unitek Learning’s Journey with Caring Science
At Unitek Learning, enhancing our educational environment with principles of empathy, compassion, and holistic well-being has been a meaningful addition. By integrating the theory of Watson Caring Science, we have deepened our commitment to these values, enriching our culture and fostering a more compassionate and supportive atmosphere throughout our institution.
Unitek Learning Human Caring Council
The establishment of the Human Caring Council across Unitek Learning’s family of accredited colleges in early 2024 reflects the institution’s commitment to Caring Science. Composed of staff trained through the Watson Caring Science Institute (WCSI), the Council's mission is to nurture a caring consciousness among staff, faculty, and students. Dr. Scott Tierno, DA, MEd, PMP, Senior Director of The Academic Leadership Academy and Academic Events, emphasizes, "Through the formation of the Human Caring Council, we are integrating Caring Science into the Unitek Learning community—within our curriculum, across our campuses, and in our online learning environments—marking a transformative step towards fostering empathy, compassion, and holistic well-being among our students and faculty.”
By collaborating across departments, the Council aims to create a safe and inclusive environment that complements traditional healthcare education with a focus on humanity, hope, and compassion. This initiative marks the beginning of a journey to celebrate Human Caring Science, with plans to share ideas, create novel scholarship, and inspire loving-kindness as a way of being.
Personal Reflection on the Caring Science Journey
Reflecting on her personal journey with the Caritas Coach Education Program® over the past three years, Kim Womack, MSN, RN, CNE, a Nursing Faculty member at Unitek, shares: “When I began my journey, I found that I was already living many of the concepts central to Caring Science. However, I quickly discovered that learning the language and simply being brave enough to try were crucial steps. This took time, but after speaking with others, I gained confidence and found comfort in my journey and growth.”
Kim continues, "I continue to realize the importance of honoring myself and reflecting on my own vulnerability. This practice has helped me engage in authentic transpersonal caring moments with my students, peers, and others, allowing us all to thrive." These experiences have been transformative, reinforcing the value of Caring Science in fostering a supportive and compassionate community.
A Vision for the Future
Dr. Abdel Yosef, PhD, RN, CNE, the Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Unitek Learning, reflects on the broader impact: "As we continue to integrate Caring Science into our educational practices, we are witnessing a profound cultural shift within our community. This approach not only enhances the learning environment but also instills a deep sense of empathy and compassion in our students. Our commitment to these principles is shaping the future of healthcare education at Unitek, where caring for others begins with caring for oneself and extends to every interaction we have."
2024 Unitek Learning Cares Annual Academic Conference
Cultivating Healthier Futures: Education, Innovation & Equity
We recently held a successful Unitek Learning Cares Annual Academic Conference, held virtually on September 13, 2024. This free event was a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge advancements in education, gain valuable insights from Caring Science leaders, and shape the future of academic excellence. Recording still available. Register here to view recordings