National NDIS Review Conference
Key Elements of NDIS Communities of Practice
To ensure that our communities of practice function effectively, three key elements are required: domain, community, and practice. The domain refers to the shared area of interest or expertise that brings members together; the community refers to the members who interact and learn from each other; and the practice refers to the shared repertoire of resources and knowledge that members develop over time.
Domain:
The domain of NDIS Communities of Practice is centered around improving outcomes for people with disabilities. Members of these communities share a common interest in supporting people with disabilities and their families, and work together to improve the quality of services provided under the NDIS. The domain encompasses a wide range of topics, including economic participation, community participation, disability rights and advocacy, service delivery, and research.
Community:
The community element of NDIS Communities of Practice refers to the members who interact and learn from each other. These communities bring together participants from different sectors, including service providers, policy makers, researchers, and people with disabilities and their families. It’s important that members feel a sense of belonging and connection with each other, as this helps to foster trust, collaboration, and a willingness to share knowledge and best practices. Through regular interactions and engagement, members can develop strong relationships with their peers and build a sense of community within the CoP.
Practice:
The practice element of NDIS Communities of Practice refers to the shared repertoire of resources and knowledge that members develop over time. Members are practitioners who develop a shared understanding of best practices, tools, and techniques that are specific to the domain of the CoP. These resources can include case studies, research findings, policy documents, and other materials that are relevant to improving outcomes for people with disabilities under the NDIS. By sharing and refining their practices, members can continuously improve the quality of services provided under the NDIS and ultimately improve outcomes for people with disabilities and their families.
By having these three elements in place, NDIS Communities of Practice provides a powerful vehicle for social learning, collaboration, and innovation.