My supervisors Dr. Woods and Dr. Mylopoulos were major drivers in my choice to study at IHPME. They are world-class scholars, and the chance to continue studying under their supervision was an opportunity that I could not pass up.
Naomi Steenhof is the first PhD graduate of the Health Professionals Education Research (HPER) program at IHPME. HPER is a unique offering that explores professional learning and knowledge generation in the healthcare professions.
Steenhof was drawn to the opportunity within HPER to critically analyze the elements that influence learning and gain access to mentorship that offered mutually-rewarding experiences for both career and personal growth.
“My supervisors Dr. Woods and Dr. Mylopoulos were major drivers in my choice to study at IHPME,” says Steenhof. “They are world-class scholars, and the chance to continue studying under their supervision was an opportunity that I could not pass up.”
Making connections with expert faculty and the well-rounded mix of theory and methodological courses deepened Steenhof’s understanding of how professional learning and knowledge generation are affected in healthcare and educational practices. Steenhof also appreciated the flexibility within the program to take relevant elective courses outside of IHPME.
“I took a test theory course through Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, and a social psychology class through the Department of Psychology on self-control and motivation that complimented my research in ways I could not have envisioned when I started the program,” says Steenhof.
Steenhof also credits the program’s ability to foster connections within a supportive environment.
“I have benefited from a small program where I could learn more about my fellow PhD students’ research,” says Steenhof. “I have had the privilege of journeying alongside them as we went through the process together.”
Currently, Naomi Steenhof is an Assistant Professor at Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Toronto and a Pharmacist at the University Health Network.
Steenhof shares the program further developed practical skills that has improved their teaching, education research, and academic pursuits.
“The director and faculty who teach in the program are highly supportive and it is an optimal place to grow and learn – not only as a researcher and educator, but as a person,” says Steenhof.
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