> But it is going to continue to be difficult to convince the
> other professions that we are one until we have standardized education.
>
I understand this reasoning, and agree with almost all of it. However, I
think the profession is enriched by the diversity of university
educations and backgrounds IBCLCs bring to their work, and would be
uncomfortable with the conventional idea of a standardized program. If a
university degree in lactation consulting became the standard for
education, that would make accessibility an issue, particularly in
countries which would not be able to offer a full university program or
in rural North America. (Having some experience with developing degree
programs -- in this case, women's studies -- I can assure you that it is
very difficult to get programs accredited and accepted.) It would
preclude volunteer counsellors from completing most of their studies by
distance education, while caring for their children, and exclude those
in other professions working at full-time jobs.
With the recognition that many more adults are participating in
continuing education, it might be appropriate to look at what an
educational program would include and how people could access courses. I
assume that the additional courses added to the IBLCE requirements have
addressed the first part of this question, and look forward to seeing
how distance education will rise to meet the occasion.
I should say, though, that the way the professional requirements are --
and even more, how they will be in 2003 -- suits me just fine. Although,
a couple of years ago, I considered designing an MEd. that would be
entirely relevant to my new profession, I was reminded my several of my
friends and colleagues that I really didn't need another degree. I am
quite sure that I would *not* have moved my family and left my toddler
several hours a day to attend university. I could not have afforded it,
financially or emotionally. I don't think I am the only one who feels
this way, and feel honoured to have been able to study and practice in
my preferred ways.
Jo-Anne Elder-Gomes, PhD in an irrevelant field... well, sort of... and
IBCLC anyway.

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